travel declaration philippines

E-TRAVEL REGISTRATION REMINDER

The Philippine Embassy in Washington D.C. reminds the public that all travelers to the Philippines are required to register at https://etravel.gov.ph/ , which is an online portal for the implementation of the electronic passenger registration and Health Declaration Checklist (HDC).

e-Travel registration is FREE OF CHARGE and does not collect or require any form of online payment. Please beware of fake, fraudulent, or scam websites and entities, which require payment upon registration.

The website https://etravel.gov.p h / is the ONLY OFFICIAL registration website for all travelers to the Philippines.

• phembassywdc
• July 21, 2023

One Health Pass to Travel to the Philippines

The One Health Pass for the Philippines has been replaced by a new electronic migratory form , the Philippine One-Stop Electronic Travel Declaration System (previously called the eTraveCard).

This updated health system performs the same function as the One Health Pass and eTravel. However, it is more streamlined and quicker to use.

The One Health Pass is no longer a requirement . Instead, all travelers must complete the Philippine One-Stop Electronic Travel Declaration.

This page provides information about the one-stop system for the Philippines and explains how to submit the health declaration .

Are the One-Stop eTravel Declaration and the One Health Pass the Same?

The One-Stop Electronic Travel Declaration is the latest upgraded version of the One Health Pass.

Both are online health declarations for the Philippines introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The One Health Pass is no longer in use, having been replaced by the improved One-Stop system . The new digital form is shorter and the process of arriving in the Philippines with the new QR code or barcode has been simplified.

When was the One Health Pass replaced by the One-Stop Declaration?

The One Health Pass was a travel requirement for the Philippines until the end of October 2022 .

On November 1, 2022 , the One Health Pass was replaced by the Philippines eArrival Card. The name was later changed to Philippines eTravel Card, and finally the Philippine One-Stop Electronic Travel Declaration System.

What was the Philippines One Health Pass?

The One Health Pass (OHP) was an online platform for people visiting the Philippines. It was introduced to facilitate safe travel to the Philippines during COVID-19 .

Now, inbound travelers must instead complete the updated version of the One Health Pass , called the one-stop system.

Incoming passengers need to register their details and flight information before taking a flight to the Philippines as well as completing the mandatory electronic Health Declaration .

They must provide contact details, health data, and other information about their trip.

Who Needs the One Health Pass for the Philippines?

No one currently needs the One Health Pass , as it has been discontinued.

Instead, all foreign visitors must fill out the new electronic travel registration online before flying to international airports in the Philippines, including:

• Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), also known as Manila Airport
• Clark International Airport (CRK)
• Matcan-Cebu International Airport (CEB)

The first 2 airports serve the Greater Manila Area and all are major international ports of entry in the Philippines.

Do residents and citizens of the Philippines need One Health Pass?

While residents and citizens do not need a travel authorization or visa to enter the country, Filipino nationals and residents returning from overseas must supply their health information to enter the country.

Therefore, they were also required to register with One Health Pass and complete an eHDC, until this system was replaced. Now, they are required to register with the new system.

Is One Health Pass still required for the Philippines in 2022?

As of November 1, 2022, the One Health Pass is no longer required for the Philippines.

Instead, travelers must use the upgraded one-stop electronic Travel system to complete the required health declaration.

Many travel restrictions for the Philippines have now been lifted.

However, the health declaration is still a mandatory requirement regardless of vaccination status, although it is no longer referred to as the OHP.

How to Get the One Health Pass for the Philippines

Travelers accessed the One Health Pass for the Philippines through the web-based online portal . Applicants did not need to download a mobile application.

The first time they entered, they had to register their details. Once registered, users could access their One Health Pass by entering their login details.

How did the One Health Pass work?

These are the steps that passengers had to take before boarding a flight to the Philippines :

• Register details with One Health Pass
• Update the OHP registration with the eHDC
• Present the QR code to airline staff

Passengers would only be allowed to board a flight for the Philippines if they had filled out the One Health Pass health declaration form in the last 24 hours and had a unique QR code.

The new system is similar to the OHP . However, you now have 72 hours before traveling to complete the health declaration.

One Health Pass Useful Terms and Acronyms

It’s useful for travelers to understand these terms and acronyms when completing the online registration process.

• Philippine One-Stop Electronic Travel Declaration System — the online platform where travelers provide their information
• eTravel Card — The last previous version of the online health declaration.
• OHP —One Health Pass. The previous version of the online health declaration, now obsolete
• eHDC —Electronic Health Declaration Card. The mandatory health declaration form accessed through the OHP
• BOQ —Bureau of Quarantine. Provides security against the introduction and spread of infectious diseases
• OHP personal QR code — the machine-readable code generated after submitting the eHDC
• OSS number — the transaction number received by email after registering with the OHP

Foreign visitors must check all the latest entry requirements and restrictions before arranging a trip to the Philippines.

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PASSENGER PROFILE & HEALTH DECLARATION FORM (PPHD): How to Register Before Flight (Philippine Airlines)

The COVID-19 pandemic has drastically changed the way we fly. As governments implement stricter travel policies, airport processes have become a lot more complicated. Here in the Philippines, one of the most recent measures is the pre-registration procedure before the flight.

Each passenger must accomplish the Passenger Profile and Health Declaration (PPHD) form a few days prior to the date of departure:

• Domestic – as early as 3 DAYS before the flight
• International – as early as 5 DAYS before the flight

But where do you get this form? In this post, we’ll share with you how to get one if you’re flying with Philippine Airlines.

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

1. Make sure you have the flight details and an email address.

Before registering, you must have the following:

• A valid email address. You will be sent the form and other details via email so make sure you have one that is working. If you don’t have one yet, you can easily create an account.
• Flight details. You need to provide the passenger’s full name, flight number, and destination.

2. Pre-register.

To get the PPHD form, you need to pre-register first. Domestic and international passengers have separate pre-registration forms:

✅ DOMESTIC PRE-REGISTRATION

✅ INTERNATIONAL PRE-REGISTRATION

Note that this is not yet the actual PPHD form. Once you’ve submitted this pre-registration form, you will be sent via email the following:

• a PPHD form
• a unique reference code
• further instructions

Take note of the reference code and follow the next instructions.

3. Fill out the PPHD form.

As mentioned, one of the items that you will receive via email after pre-registration is the actual Passenger Profile and Health Declaration Form (PPHD form) . Accomplish that.

Note that each passenger should fill out the form, even if they’re traveling as part of a group.

4. Secure the other requirements.

On top of the PPHD Form, there may be additional documents that are required at the airport. For more information about the departure process, we have a step-by-step guides here:

✅ DOMESTIC DEPARTURE PROCESS!

✅ INTERNATIONAL DEPARTURE PROCESS!

The government of your destination country may also have their own sets of requirements and restrictions. These vary from country to country. For a list of other requirements, visit either of these:

• List of Travel Requirements – DOMESTIC
• List of Travel Requirements – INTERNATIONAL

On that page, scroll down to the bottom and you’ll find a menu. Click those that apply to you and they’ll reveal a list of requirements per destination and passenger classification.

Philippine Airlines Airports

This applies to the following airports that PAL operates to and from here in the Philippines.

• Manila – Ninoy Aquino International Airport
• Antique – Evelio Javier Airport
• Bacolod – New Bacolod Silay International Airport
• Basco – Basco Airport
• Busuanga – Francisco B. Reyes Airport
• Butuan – Butuan Airport
• Cagayan de Oro – Laguindingan Airport
• Calbayog – Calbayog Airport
• Camiguin – Camiguin Airport
• Catarman – Catarman National Airport
• Caticlan – Godofredo P. Ramos Caticlan Airport
• Cebu – Mactan-Cebu International Airport
• Cotabato – Cotabato Airport
• Clark – Clark International Airport
• Davao – Davao International Airport
• Dipolog – Dipolog Airport
• Dumaguete – Dumaguete Airport
• General Santos – General Santos International Airport
• Iloilo – Iloilo International Airport
• Kalibo – Kalibo International Airport
• Laoag – Laoag International Airport
• Legazpi – Legazpi Airport
• Ozamiz – Ozamiz Airport
• Pagadian – Pagadian Airport
• Puerto Princesa – Puerto Princesa International Airport
• Roxas – Roxas Airport
• San Vicente – San Vicente Airport
• Siargao – Sayak Airport
• Tacloban – Daniel Z. Romualdez Airport
• Tagbilaran – Bohol Panglao International Airport
• Tawi-tawi – Sanga-sanga Airport

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• New DEPARTURE Guidelines for Domestic Passengers in Manila
• Philippine Airlines New Travel Guidelines at Airport & Inside the Airplane
• Cebu Pacific New Travel Guidelines

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Hi, If non Pal po san mag fill out nito : Passenger Profile and Health Declaration Form (PPHD form) would you know? TIA

I have a hard time getting my qr code please help

I can’t get PR number from airline signing Philipinnes Airline. Is this requirement still applicable for Domestic Travel for foreign national

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Philippines One-Stop Electronic Travel Declaration System

Philippines official etravel registration.

All visitors to the Philippines need to register with the Philippines One-Stop Electronic Travel Declaration System ( eTravel ).

Find all the information you need to get registered for your trip right here. This page covers:

• What eTravel for the Philippines is
• Who needs to register
• What you need to submit a request
• How to apply online
• Arriving in the Philippines with eTravel Declaration

What Is the eTravel for the Philippines?

The Philippines One-Stop Electronic Travel Declaration System (eTravel) is an online arrival/departure card system . It’s designed to streamline the immigration process for travelers entering and exiting the country.

The Declaration System collects information about travelers , such as personal details, passport information, and travel itinerary.

If you’re entering the Philippines, you also need to answer some health questions , as it also acts as a Health Declaration.

Who Needs to Use the eTravel to Visit the Philippines?

The eTravel registration is required for all passengers visiting the Philippines by air or sea , including Philippine passport holders. This includes tourists, business travelers, those visiting friends and family, passengers in transit, and residents of the country.

To complete the One-Stop Electronic Travel Declaration, you first need to ensure you meet the requirements .

How to Register with the Philippines One-Stop Electronic Travel Declaration System

To register with the eTravel system for the Philippines , simply follow these steps :

Complete the online application form with the required information

Review your application and check all details are correct

Submit your application and pay the eTravel Declaration processing fee

Receive a PDF of the eTravel Card QR code via email

Arriving in / Departing From the Philippines with an Approved eTravel

Once you make your Electronic Travel Declaration, the arrival process in the Philippines is straightforward. The eTravel simplifies arrival procedures in the Philippines. At the airport, proceed to the immigration area, where you will present your approved eTravel QR code .

It's essential to have a printed or digital copy of your One-Stop eTravel Declaration QR readily available for inspection. You must also present the same passport you used to register to the immigration officer.

The immigration officer will verify your eTravel QR and passport. Depending on your nationality, you may also need a visa.

The processes for departing the Philippines with the Electronic Travel Declaration System is similar.

You simply present your eTravel QR code to pass through immigration and to board your transportation.

Is the Philippines eTravel the same as the eArrival Card?

Yes , the Philippines One-Stop Electronic Travel Declaration System (eTravel) replaces the electronic Health Declaration Card or eArrival Card.

The online system was originally introduced as a COVID-19 safety measure. It now acts as a general travel declaration. Paper based arrival and departure cards are no longer in use.

Is the eTravel the Same as a Philippines Visa?

No , the One-Stop Electronic Travel Declaration System Card is not the same as a Philippines visa . If your nationality is not visa-exempt for the Philippines, then you will need to obtain a visa in addition to the electronic arrival card.

Depending on your nationality, this may be either an electronic visa, a visa on arrival, or an embassy visa. If you're eligible for the Philippines eVisa, we recommend the online application , as it is the most convenient and allows expedited entry to the country.

If you're traveling for business or work , a business visa or work permit is necessary. Your sponsoring company in the Philippines will typically assist with this process, which requires additional documentation, such as an invitation letter from the company.

Remember that requirements can vary , so always carefully check the Philippine entry conditions for your nationality well in advance of your planned departure date.

How long does it take to register with eTravel?

You can complete the online form for the eTravel in just a few minutes. Through this site, you can register the Electronic Travel Declaration right up to the day of travel if you choose our 1-hour Priority Service.

Standard processing takes 1 to 2 days.

Benefit From Our Expert eTravel Services

Apply with Philippinesetravel.com for convenience and total peace of mind . We make arranging your essential travel pass quick, easy, and hassle-free.

You could apply for the eTravel for free directly through the government. However, by doing so you’d miss out on the benefits of our optimized application process.

Here’s how our service fees improve your eTravel experience

Apply today with Philippinesetravel.com, your trusted eTravel solution.

eTravel Pass

eTravel Pass is an online platform dedicated to passengers who arrive in or depart from the Philippines. The electronic system collects necessary visitors’ details, which are essential for speeding up border control and ensuring safety in the country.

At the moment, all travelers, including foreigners and Filipino nationals, who are considering visiting the Philippines, are required to complete the online registration for the eTravel Pass. No country in the world is currently exempt from this requirement.

For an issue-free journey, submit your eTravel Pass within 3 days of the intended trip date. Once the Philippine immigration authorities process your application, a receipt of your pass will be sent to you via email in the form of a QR code. This code is necessary to pass through the Philippine border control without any issues. It can be shown to the border officials either in a physical or digital form.

Important : The Philippines eTravel Pass is not the equivalent of a visa or eTA. All travelers are obliged to familiarize themselves with all entry requirements, as they may need to obtain other entry documents.

How to submit the eTravel Pass online

There are only three steps that you should have in mind once submitting your eTravel Pass online, including:

• Filling out an online form : You will be asked to provide some essential details such as your name, surname, passport number, etc. Make sure that all the data entered is error-free before you submit it for final approval.
• Upload supporting documents : Upload a previously prepared scan or good-quality photo of your bio-data passport page.
• Cover the processing fee : Choose one of the available methods (credit/debit card, PayPal, etc.) of online payment and pay the service fee.

Once you cover the payment fee, remember to refresh your email inbox. All the updates regarding progress in your application will be sent to you via email. The receipt of your processed eTravel Pass will also be sent electronically.

Since presenting an eTravel Pass QR code upon arrival in the Philippines is obligatory, you must be able to show it either on your mobile phone or present a printed copy.

Requirements to complete eTravel Pass for the Philippines

There are only a few requirements that must be met to successfully submit an eTravel Card for the Philippines. Before you start your application, make sure you have the following:

• an active email address that you frequently check
• any working electronic device with a stable Internet connection
• access to a valid means of online payment
• a digital copy of a valid passport that will not expire for at least 6 months beyond the travel date

Completing the eTravel application form also requires providing some details, including:

• personal data (name, surname, citizenship, passport number, occupation)
• address in the country of your permanent residence

Before submitting your application form, do remember to double-check the provided details, as any single typo or another mistake may result in delays in processing your eTravel Pass.

The eTravel is a Unified Electronic Travel Declaration Platform introduced by the Philippine authorities to collect data on travelers arriving in or departing from the country. The system facilitates border and health control and also serves as a source for economic analysis.

As of now, all travelers planning to visit the Philippines need to submit the eTravel Pass. This requirement applies to both foreign visitors and Filipino citizens. There are only a few exceptions, including crew members, delegates and other officials and their family members traveling to the Philippines.

In December 2022, the eTravel Pass replaced the previously operating e-Arrival Card Registration (also known as One Health Pass). Registration for the eTravel system is still mandatory before every trip to the Philippines.

Go to the online application form on our website and complete your registration by providing certain details and covering the processing fee. Once your eTravel Pass is processed, you will receive a QR code via email. Print it out or download it on your mobile phone before starting your journey.

No. eTravel Pass can be completed on the website without the need to download any mobile app. Grab your electronic device, ensure a stable Internet connection, and submit your eTravel Registration online.

Registration for the Electronic Travel Declaration System is open 3 days before the intended arrival date. You may be asked to present proof of your eTravel registration in order to board the plane.

No. A printed copy is not necessary. After completing your Philippines eTravel application, you can download your individual QR code. The code must be presented to an airline representative before boarding the flight.

Philippines One-Stop Electronic Travel Declaration System

Philippines official etravel registration.

The Philippines is a popular destination for tourists, business travelers, and those visiting friends and family. To ensure a seamless immigration process, the government has introduced the  Philippines One-Stop Electronic Travel Declaration System (eTravel Declaration) .

Philippinesetravel.com  aims to provide you with all the necessary information on how to register with eTravel and ensure a smooth journey. We’ll cover:

• What eTravel for the Philippines is
• Who needs to register
• What you need to submit a request
• How to apply online
• Arriving in the Philippines with eTravel Declaration

What Is the eTravel for the Philippines?

The Philippines One-Stop Electronic Travel Declaration System (eTravel) is an  online arrival/departure card system . It’s designed to streamline the immigration process for travelers entering and exiting the country.

The Declaration System  collects essential information about travelers , such as personal details, passport information, and travel itinerary.

If you’re entering the Philippines, you also need to  answer some health questions , as it also acts as a Health Declaration.

This information is then used by the Philippine authorities  to facilitate a more efficient immigration process . This allows you to spend less time at the airport and more time enjoying your stay in the Philippines.

The eTravel registration is required for  all passengers entering or leaving the Philippines by air or sea , including Philippine passport holders. This includes tourists, business travelers, those visiting friends and family, passengers in transit, and residents of the country.

To complete the One-Stop Electronic Travel Declaration, you first need to ensure you  meet all of the requirements .

How to Register with the Philippines One-Stop Electronic Travel Declaration System

To  register with the eTravel system for the Philippines , simply  follow these steps :

Review your application and ensure all details are correct

Receive a PDF of the eTravel Card QR code via email

Complete the online application form with the required information

Submit your application and pay the eTravel Declaration processing fee, if applicable

Arriving in / Departing from the Philippines with an Approved eTravel

Once you made your Electronic Travel Declaration, the arrival process in the Philippines is straightforward. Upon arrival at the airport, proceed to the immigration area, where you will present your  approved eTravel QR code .

It’s essential to have a printed or digital copy of your One-Stop eTravel Declaration QR readily available for inspection. You must also  present the same passport you used to register  to the immigration officer.

The immigration officer will verify your eTravel QR and passport, and  once cleared, you’ll be granted entry into the Philippines . However, please note that, depending on your nationality, you may also need to obtain a visa for the Philippines.

The processes for  departing the Philippines with the Electronic Travel Declaration System  is similar. You simply present your eTravel QR code to pass through immigration and to board your transportation.

Is the Philippines eTravel the same as the eArrival Card?

Yes, the Philippines One-Stop Electronic Travel Declaration System (eTravel)  replaces the electronic Health Declaration Card  or eArrivalCard introduced as a COVID-19 safety measure for the Philippines. The eTravel now acts as a health declaration for the Philippines.

Both of the online systems  replaced the traditional paper-based arrival / departure cards for the Philippines , making the submission process more convenient and environmentally friendly.

Is the eTravel the Same as a Philippines Visa?

No, the One-Stop Electronic Travel Declaration System Card is  not the same as a Philippines visa . If your nationality is not visa-exempt for the Philippines, then you will need to obtain a visa in addition to the electronic arrival card.

Depending on your nationality, this may be either an electronic visa, a visa on arrival, or an embassy visa. If you are eligible for the Philippines eVisa,  we recommend the online application method , as it is the most convenient and allows expedited entry to the country.

If you’re  traveling for business or work , a business visa or work permit is necessary. Your sponsoring company in the Philippines will typically assist with this process, which requires additional documentation, such as an invitation letter from the company.

Remember that  requirements can vary , so always carefully check the Philippine entry conditions for your nationality well in advance of your planned departure date.

Is eTravel Declaration still required in the Philippines?

Yes, the eTravel Declaration (Philippines One-Stop Electronic Travel Declaration System) is still required for all foreign nationals and Philippine passport holders entering or leaving the country.

How long does it take to register with eTravel?

You can complete the online form for the eTravel in just a few minutes. Through this site, you can register the Electronic Travel Declaration as soon as you wish, right up to the day of travel.

If you require your document urgently, you have the option to select the  Priority Service, which guarantees processing within 1 hour . Standard processing typically takes 1 to 2 days.

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News / Press Releases

Africa CDC Declares Mpox A Public Health Emergency of Continental Security, Mobilizing Resources Across the Continent

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 13 Aug 2024 – The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has officially declared the ongoing Mpox outbreak a Public Health Emergency of Continental Security (PHECS), marking the first such declaration by the agency since its inception in 2017.

This declaration, under Article 3, Paragraph F of the Africa CDC Statutes, empowers the organization to lead and coordinate responses to significant health emergencies. The statute mandates Africa CDC to “coordinate and support Member States in health emergency responses, particularly those declared PHECS or Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC), as well as health promotion and disease prevention through health systems strengthening, addressing communicable and non-communicable diseases, environmental health, and Neglected Tropical Diseases.”

The declaration will enable the mobilization of resources across affected countries, unlocking essential funding, strengthening Risk Communication and Community Engagement (RCCE), boosting surveillance and laboratory testing efforts, and enhancing human resource capacities to respond effectively to Mpox through a One Health approach.

Africa CDC Director General Dr. Jean Kaseya emphasized the urgency of swift and decisive action: “Today, we declare this PHECS to mobilize our institutions, our collective will, and our resources to act—swiftly and decisively. This empowers us to forge new partnerships, strengthen our health systems, educate our communities, and deliver life-saving interventions where they are needed most. There is no need for travel restrictions at this time.”

At least 12 African countries, including previously unaffected nations like Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda, have reported Mpox outbreaks. So far in 2024, these countries have confirmed 2,863 cases and 517 deaths, primarily in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Suspected cases across the continent have surged past 17,000, a significant increase from 7,146 cases in 2022 and 14,957 cases in 2023. This is just the tip of the iceberg when we consider the many weaknesses in surveillance, laboratory testing and contact tracing.

Dr. Kaseya underscored the gravity of the situation stating “This is not just another challenge; it’s a crisis that demands our collective action. Article 3, Paragraph F of the Africa CDC Statutes mandates us to lead and coordinate the response when there is a declaration of a public health emergency of international concern.”

From May 2022 to July 2023, Mpox was declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) by the WHO. However, Africa did not receive the support it urgently needed during this period. As global cases began to decline, the escalating numbers in Africa were largely ignored. Dr. Kaseya emphasized the need for a change in approach: “We urge our international partners to seize this moment to act differently and collaborate closely with Africa CDC to provide the necessary support to our Member States.”

He continued, appealing to global partners: “We call on you to stand with us in this critical hour. Africa has long been on the frontlines in the fight against infectious diseases, often with limited resources. The battle against Mpox demands a global response. We need your support, expertise, and solidarity. The world cannot afford to turn a blind eye to this crisis.”

He explained that the emergency declaration follows wide consultations, including a unanimous decision by the Africa CDC Emergency Consultative Group (ECG), chaired by Professor Salim Abdool Karim, head of CAPRISA, an AIDS research program based in Durban, South Africa.

Prof. Karim highlighted that limited surveillance and evidence suggest the situation could be more severe than currently understood. “The number of cases has significantly increased compared to 2022 when WHO declared Mpox a public health emergency. It’s clear that we’re facing a different scenario with far more cases, resulting in a higher burden of illness,” he said. He also raised concerns about the rising fatalities, particularly the potential link between HIV and Mpox.  “ Our concern is that we may be seeing more fatalities in Africa due to the association with HIV,” he noted.

Cross-border transmission to previously unaffected countries was also a concern, prompting the ECG to urge the strategic distribution of the limited vaccines available. The lack of diagnostic capabilities was identified as a critical issue requiring urgent attention, and the ECG encouraged the development of response plans, promising to provide input and support.

To address the Mpox outbreak in Africa, Africa CDC has set up a 25-member Incident Management Team based at the epicenter of the Mpox epidemic with mandate to support affected and at-risk countries. Africa CDC has also signed a partnership agreement with the European Commission’s Health Emergency Preparedness and Response Authority (HERA) and Bavarian Nordic to provide over 215,000 doses of the MVA-BN® vaccine—the only FDA and EMA-approved Mpox vaccine. Africa CDC will oversee the equitable distribution of these vaccines, prioritizing local needs across the affected Member States.

MPOX SYMPTOMS, PREVENTION, AND TREATMENT

Mpox is a viral illness caused by the monkeypox virus, with two distinct clades: Clade I and Clade II. Common symptoms include a skin rash or mucosal lesions lasting 2–4 weeks, fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, low energy, and swollen lymph nodes. The virus can be transmitted to humans through physical contact with an infectious person, contaminated materials, or infected animals.

NOTE TO EDITORS

About the Africa CDC

The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) is a continental autonomous public health agency of the African Union that supports member states in efforts to strengthen health systems and improve surveillance, emergency response, and prevention and control of diseases. Learn more at: http://www.africacdc.org

MEDIA CONTACTS

Media inquiries:  Margaret Edwin, Director of Communication & Public Information Division: Africa CDC | Tel: +251 986 632 878 | Email:  [email protected]

13 August 2024

Emergency Response and Preparedness

Central Africa , Eastern Africa , Northern Africa , Southern Africa , Western Africa

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Second Non-African Country Confirms Case Of Deadlier Mpox Strain

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Thailand on Thursday confirmed an mpox case reported earlier this week was the new clade Ib strain, marking only the second time the deadlier variant has been identified outside of Africa as governments worldwide intensify surveillance and containment efforts to combat the virus.

Thailand confirmed a case of mpox clade Ib, the first in Asia.

Thailand’s Department of Disease Control said tests had confirmed the country’s first case of the new, more dangerous strain of mpox linked to a growing outbreak in Africa.

The case is a 66-year-old European man who arrived in Bangkok from an unspecified African country last week, the department said.

It is Asia’s first known case of the clade Ib mpox variant and just the second known case outside of Africa after Sweden confirmed an infection with the dangerous new variant last week.

The man was hospitalized with mpox symptoms shortly after arriving and his symptoms are not severe, officials said , adding that he has been under quarantine since.

Director-general of Thailand’s Department of Disease Control Thongchai Keeratihattayakorn told Reuters the man was “likely infected from an endemic country.”

No other local infections have been identified through contact tracing, Keeratihattayakorn said.

WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus declared a public health emergency of international concern over an escalating mpox outbreak in central Africa. The declaration, which followed a similar warning from Africa’s top public health body, the Africa Center for Disease Control and Prevention, is the WHO’s highest level of alert under international law. It is the second time the designation has been used for mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, in as many years after the WHO sounded the alarm for a global outbreak in 2022, which primarily spread among gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men and was the first time the virus had caused a significant outbreak outside of Africa. Mpox often causes mild disease with symptoms including a rash, fever and muscle aches, though the virus can kill and is particularly dangerous to young children, those with compromised immune systems and pregnant people. It is spread through contact with an infected person, animal or contaminated material like sheets. The current outbreak is being driven by an offshoot of a mpox virus variant (clade I) that has historically been confined to central Africa, especially the Democratic Republic of Congo, and is thought to be much deadlier than the clade II variant responsible for the global outbreak in 2022 and appears to have evolved to be more easily transmitted through contact. Africa CDC officials say there have been more than 17,000 suspected cases this year so far and more than 500 deaths.

What Are Countries Doing To Fight Mpox?

Many countries have upped surveillance efforts to try and intercept any mpox cases that may be arriving in the country. The Philippines, Pakistan and Singapore have all discovered or reported clade II infections in the last week. Singapore said it will start screening temperatures of travelers arriving from places at risk of outbreaks from Friday and last week China said it will monitor goods and passenger arrivals for the virus for the next six months. Health agencies like the WHO have stressed there is no need for travel or trade bans to combat the outbreak. Other countries, particularly in affected parts of Africa, are securing vaccine stocks from the likes of Danish biotech firm Bavarian Nordic, which has said it can supply 2 million doses this year and another 8 million by the end of next year.

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NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

Mpox outbreak 2024: Five countries tighten border screening as new variant spreads

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Several Asian nations are toughening their border controls in response to a new deadlier variant of the mpox virus.

Two cases of the strain, known as Clade 1b, were detected in Sweden and Thailand respectively over the past ten days.

They are the first two confirmed cases outside of Africa, where an outbreak which started in the Democratic Republic of Congo last year has spread to neighbouring countries, claiming hundreds of lives.

New health measures have been introduced or are set to be introduced in Thailand , Singapore , South Korea , Indonesia , the Philippines and Malaysia .

Most involve checks on arrivals, such as temperature screening, while some nations are preparing to quarantine people who show symptoms .

• 2d ago Thailand confirms case of new dangerous strain of mpox
• 2d ago Are travel restrictions in place amid mpox outbreak?
• 2d ago Border controls ramped up in Asia amid concerns about new mpox variant
• 2d ago Minister visits Africa as UK steps up support amid mpox outbreak

This live blog is now closed

This live blog is now closed. For future coverage on the outbreak, check Metro’s mpox page.

Here were some of the top stories.

Thailand confirms case of new dangerous strain of mpox

Thailand has confirmed that a case of mpox in the country is the new clade 1 variant.

This variant has also been confirmed in various countries in Africa and also Sweden.

The infected 66-year-old European man arrived in Bangkok from an unnamed African country on August 14.

Are travel restrictions in place amid mpox outbreak?

The spread of the new clade 1 variant has caused concern among some countries, particularly in Asia where measures have been ramped up.

While there are no travel restrictions currently in place, governments in different countries are taking measures to protect travellers.

In India, the government has directed airports, ports, and border authorities to stay vigilant while some hospitals have facilities for isolating suspected mpox cases.

Border controls ramped up in Asia amid concerns about new mpox variant

Border controls across various Asian countries have been ramped up after a suspected case of the clade 1 variant was found in Thailand.

South Korea is now monitoring passengers from high-risk countries, which includes Ethiopia, Kenya and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Meanwhile Taiwan has started to stockpile vaccines and has launched immunisation programmes for high-risk groups.

WHO partners allowed to buy vaccines before final approval

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has relaxed its rules around vaccine access for partner organisations to speed up help for African nations struggling with mpox.

International organisations are usually only allowed to buy jabs after they are formally approved by the WHO.

But the health agency is allowing bodies such as UNICEF and Gavi to start stockpiling them before this happens.

The vaccines will still need approval before they can be used, and the WHO is expected to grant an emergency licence in a matter of weeks.

It’s hoped the move will speed up talks to get them rolled out afterwards.

Two vaccines in particular, made by a Danish firm and a Japanese firm respectively, have already been approved by national regulators and millions have been used against mpox since 2022.

The WHO licence will allow international groups to procure vaccines instead of national governments alone.

WHO partners allowed to buy vaccines before UN approval

Is mpox in the uk and how worried should we be.

The current alarm around the mpox virus is driven by the emergence of a new variant believed to be more deadly.

A total of 286 cases have been recorded in the UK over the past year-and-a-half, though there were no fatalities.

Some 450 people have died in an outbreak in Africa centred in the Democratic Republic of Congo, however.

These cases have been liked to a strain known as Clade 1b, which is not yet well understood by scientists.

The first two cases of this strain outside of Africa were detected in recent days, in people who travelled from Africa to Sweden and Thailand respectively.

No cases of it have been detected in the UK, though there are no restrictions on people entering the country from the virus hotspots.

The World Health Organisation has reassured people that mpox is ‘not the new Covid’ as authorities know clearly how to control its spread.

Experts say the virus has mostly spread from close contact between people in relatively unsanitary conditions.

Isle of Man ‘preparing for mpox outbreak’

Public health officials on the Isle of Man say they are ‘planning and preparing’ for a local outbreak of the mpox virus.

They said the risk to residents is currently ‘low’ but urged them to nonetheless stay on the lookout for symptoms.

Countries around the world are on high alert after cases of a deadlier new strain of the virus were detected outside of Africa for the first time.

One of the cases was confirmed in Sweden last week and another in Thailand this week. Both had travelled from Africa, where the outbreak is centred.

Top EU official demands ‘coordinated’ response to mpox spread

The EU’s health chief has called for more vaccine donations as part of a ‘coordinated and sustained’ response to the spread of the mpox virus.

Stella Kyriakides, the European Commissioner for Health and Food Safety, wrote a public letter pressuring member states who haven’t yet donated vaccine doses to start doing so.

She said 215,000 doses have been donated to the Africa Centres for Disease Control with the help of the EU’s anti-pandemic taskforce.

Her letter mentions a ‘deadline’ at the end of August, though it’s not clear if member states will face any sanctions for failing to donate by this time.

I have written to 🇪🇺 Health Ministers regarding plans to donate #mpox vaccines & therapeutics. ➡️🌍 solidarity is key to facing global health threats. We count on Member States to support our African partners in managing the outbreak. @EU_Commission stands ready to coordinate. pic.twitter.com/5pfoYEf5kS — Stella Kyriakides (@SKyriakidesEU) August 23, 2024

Entry restrictions tightened in several Asian countries

Five Asian nations are toughening their border controls in response to a new deadlier variant of the mpox virus.

New health measures have been introduced or are set to be introduced in Thailand, Singapore, South Korea, Indonesia, the Philippines and Malaysia.

For example, anyone arriving in Thailand from countries with ongoing outbreaks will be thoroughly screened and must register with the government.

Thailand and South Korea have both put in place measures allowing authorities to quarantine anyone who displays symptoms.

UK STEPS UP SUPPORT TO TACKLE  MPOX  OUTBREAK ON VISIT TO THE DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC

Africa Minister Lord Collins has announced new funding to tackle the outbreak of mpox cases in the DRC.

During a visit to the Institute National de Recherche Biomedical (National Institute of Biomedical Research) in the DRC, Lord Collins announced £3.1m of UK funding for a new partnership with UNICEF that will benefit over 4.4 million people in affected communities as well as help preventing the further spread of mpox to neighbouring countries.

This funding announcement follows a declaration from the World Health Organisation (WHO) that the upsurge of mpox in the DRC and a growing number of countries in Africa constitutes a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC).

Shares in mpox vaccine maker soar amid outbreak

As nations mobilise to combat the escalating mpox outbreak, shares of Danish biotech Bavarian Nordic have surged.

This follows strong earnings and a large order of the mpox vaccine in which the company announced a 440,000 dose contract to an undisclosed European country.

It is the only shot authorised to be used against the virus in the US and EU.

It is sold under the brand names of names Jynneos, Imvamune and Imvanex – and pulled in around 680 million Danish kroner (£77,290,840) for the year.

During early trading in Copenhagen this morning stocks jumped by more than 12%.

He has had minimal contact with others since he arrived, according to  health  authorities.

The infection in Thailand is the first confirmed case of Clade 1 in Asia and the second outside of Africa.

Authorities tracked down around 43 patients who were sitting in the rows near the unidentified man, and those who met him after he landed.

These people will be monitored for 21 days.

The country now also requires people travelling from 42 ‘risk countries’ to test on arrival.

Indonesia has introduced health screening for foreign travellers who must complete forms disclosing medical history and recent travel activities.

Meanwhile in China there is enhanced airport surveillance to isolate and test affected travellers and those with symptoms must report their condition on entry.

Airport screening has also been introduced in South Africa and Kenya has introduced testing procedures for travellers entering the country to identify mpox cases and prevent their spread. 

Nigeria is implementing a declaration process for travellers heading to specific regions in Africa, while Pakistan has prepared hospital wards for a potential mpox outbreak following the detection of a case there.

Hospital wards in Pakistan prepared for mpox outbreak

And Pakistan has introduced screening at airports following the discovery of a case in the country.

Minister visits Africa as UK steps up support amid mpox outbreak

The government has stepped up its support following the outbreak of mpox as Africa Minister Lord Collins visits the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

He announced £3.1m of UK funding for a new partnership with Unicef.

The funding announcement follows a declaration from the World Health Organisation (WHO) last week that mpox is now a global health emergency.

Lord Collins said: ‘Working together, with our partners and using the expertise and dedication of Congolese scientists, including those at the world-leading research centre I have visited in DRC, our support will play an important role in ensuring global health security for all.

‘By protecting the health and well-being of communities across DRC, and by helping contain these outbreaks, we reduce the risk of diseases spreading further afield. This will ultimately benefit us all.’

Argentina health officials rule out suspected case of mpox on grains ship

Health officials in Argentina said on Wednesday that a test to determine if a crew member on a quarantined grains cargo ship was infected with the mpox virus had come back negative, according to a statement from the health ministry.

The crew member, an Indian national who had developed cyst-like skin lesions on his chest and face, was working on the ship that was traveling along a key commodities route near the inland river port city of Rosario.

Authorities had quarantined the ship in the Parana River as a precaution.

In its statement, the health ministry said the individual tested negative for mpox, but positive for chicken pox.

Bavarian Nordic gets 440,000 dose contract to supply smallpox and mpox vaccines

Danish biotech firm Bavarian Nordic said on Wednesday that it has received a contract to supply 440,000 doses of its smallpox and mpox vaccines to an undisclosed European country.

The company said the latest order was anticipated as part of its outlook for the year, and has no impact on the remaining capacity for its smallpox and mpox vaccine.

Last week, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared that an outbreak of mpox, a viral infection that spreads through close contact, represents a global health emergency for the second time in two years.

‘Bavarian Nordic can still supply up to 10 million doses of our smallpox and mpox vaccine by the end of next year, with 2 million doses of this capacity available during the remaining part of this year, said CEO Paul Chaplin.

The company could ramp up production of its mpox vaccine even before having orders lined up, based on the outcome of talks this week with the WHO, Chaplin told Reuters on Tuesday.

UN migration agency appeals for $18.5 million in for  mpox  outbreak

The United Nation’s International Organisation for Migration (IOM) appealed on Wednesday for $18.5 million in assistance to provide health care services to people impacted by the mpox outbreak in East and Southern Africa, according to a statement.

‘The spread of mpox across East, Horn, and Southern Africa is a grave concern, especially for the vulnerable migrant, highly mobile populations and displaced communities often overlooked in such crises,’ said IOM Director General Amy Pope.

Is there an mpox vaccine?

Yes there is a vaccine for mpox.

The UN health agency recommends several vaccines for use against mpox.

At present, WHO recommends use of MVA-BN or LC16 vaccines, or the ACAM2000 vaccine when the others are not available.

Only people who are at risk of exposure to mpox should be considered for vaccination. Travellers who may be at risk based on an individual risk assessment with their healthcare provider, may wish to consider vaccination.

Mass vaccination which rolled out during the coronavirus pandemic, is not currently recommended.

Research has led to the development of newer and safer vaccines for the now eradicated disease smallpox. Some of these vaccines have been approved in various countries for use against mpox.

Health chiefs in Guernsey ‘closely monitoring’ mpox situation

Health chiefs in Guernsey have confirmed they are ‘closely monitoring’ the mpox outbreak after a case of the clade 1 variant was found in Sweden last week.

Director of Public Health Dr Nicola Brink said a ‘multi-disciplinary team’ would meet to discuss the outbreak this week.

She said: ‘We are monitoring the global situation closely and are keeping it under review.’

It comes after the World Health Organisation (WHO) said last week that mpox is now a global health emergency.

Minister visits Africa as UK steps up support to tackle mpox outbreak

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Mpox: What you need to know about the latest public health emergency

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The swift spread of a new virulent strain of the mpox virus across Africa triggered the World Health Organization (WHO) to  declare it once again a public health emergency of international concern last week.

But, what is it, where did it come from and how can the world deal with the threat, which inevitably raises the spectre of pandemics past such as COVID-19 and the early spread of HIV infections?

Here’s what you need to know:

What is mpox?

Formerly known as monkeypox, the viral disease can spread between people, mainly through close contact, and occasionally from the environment to people via objects and surfaces that have been touched by a person with mpox.

Originating in the Democratic Republic of the Congo in 1970, mpox was neglected there, according to WHO .

“It is time to act decisively to prevent history from repeating itself,” said Dimie Ogoina, who chairs the  International Health Regulations’ Emergency Committee , which advises WHO on such matters.

Endemic in central and West Africa, the infectious disease later caused a global outbreak in 2022, leading to a WHO public health emergency in July as it became a multi-country outbreak.

Following a series of consultations with global experts, WHO has begun using a new preferred term “mpox” as a synonym for monkeypox. Find out more about that decision here .

What are the symptoms?

Common symptoms of mpox include a rash lasting for two to four weeks, which may be started with or followed by fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, low energy and swollen lymph nodes.

The rash looks like blisters and can affect the face, palms of the hands, soles of the feet, groin, genital and/or anal regions, mouth, throat or the eyes. The number of sores can range from one to several thousand.

People with mpox are considered infectious at least until all their blisters have crusted over, the scabs have fallen off and a new layer of skin has formed underneath, and all lesions on the eyes and in the body have healed. Typically this takes two to four weeks. Reports show that people can be re-infected after they’ve had mpox.

People with severe mpox may require hospitalisation, supportive care and antiviral medicines to reduce the severity of lesions and shorten time to recovery.

How does mpox spread?

Human to human: Touching, sex and talking or breathing close to someone with mpox can generate infectious respiratory particles, but more research is needed on how the virus spreads during outbreaks in different settings and conditions, says WHO.

What scientists do know is that it is also possible for the virus to persist for some time on clothing, bedding, towels, objects, electronics and surfaces that have been touched by a person with mpox. Someone else who is in contact with these items may become infected without first washing their hands before touching their eyes, nose and mouth.

The virus can also spread during pregnancy to the fetus, during or after birth through skin-to-skin contact, or from a parent with mpox to an infant or child during close contact.

Although getting mpox from someone who is asymptomatic has been reported, there is still limited information on whether the virus can be transmitted from someone with the virus before they get symptoms or after their lesions have healed.

Humans to animals: Since many species of animals are known to be susceptible to the virus, there is the potential for spillback of the virus from humans to animals in different settings.

People who have confirmed or suspected mpox should avoid close physical contact with animals, including such pets as cats, dogs, hamsters and gerbils, as well as livestock and wildlife.

Animals to humans: Someone who comes into physical contact with an animal which carries the virus, such as some species of monkey - or a terrestrial rodent like a tree squirrel - may also develop mpox. Such exposure can occur through bites or scratches, or during activities such as hunting, skinning, trapping or preparing a meal. The virus can also be caught through eating contaminated meat which is not cooked thoroughly.

Can it be fatal?

Yes, for a small minority. Between 0.1 per cent and 10 per cent of people who have become infected with mpox, have died.

It is important to note that death rates in different settings may differ due to several factors, such as access to health care and underlying immunosuppression, including because of undiagnosed HIV or advanced HIV, according to the UN health agency.

In most cases, the symptoms of mpox go away on their own within a few weeks with supportive care, such as medication for pain or fever, but, in some people, the illness can be severe or lead to complications and eventual death.

Newborn babies, children, people who are pregnant and people with underlying immune deficiencies - such as from advanced HIV - may be at higher risk of more serious mpox disease and death.

Is there a vaccine?

Yes. The UN health agency recommends several vaccines for use against mpox. However, mass vaccination, which rolled out during the COVID-19 global pandemic, is not currently recommended.

Many years of research have led to the development of newer and safer vaccines for the now eradicated disease smallpox. Some of these vaccines have been approved in various countries for use against mpox.

At present, WHO recommends use of MVA-BN or LC16 vaccines, or the ACAM2000 vaccine when the others are not available.

Only people who are at risk of exposure to mpox should be considered for vaccination, according to WHO. Travellers who may be at risk based on an individual risk assessment with their healthcare provider, may wish to consider vaccination.

How can you prevent mpox?

Cleaning and disinfecting surfaces or objects and cleaning your hands after touching surfaces or objects that may be contaminated can help prevent transmission.

The risk of getting mpox from animals can be reduced by avoiding unprotected contact with wild animals, especially those that are sick or dead, including their meat and blood.

In countries where animals carry the virus, any food containing animal parts or meat should be cooked thoroughly before eating.

Learn more about mpox  here .