As schools across Rwanda reopened on Monday, August 9, Rwanda Biomedical Centre (RBC) rolled out detailed mpox prevention measures, emphasising vigilance to safeguard students and staff against potential outbreaks.

The guidelines aim to minimise the risk of mpox transmission within educational institutions, focusing on early detection, hygiene practices, and students’ awareness.

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Mpox, a viral disease transmitted through contact with infected individuals or contaminated objects, has raised concerns among public health officials, especially in schools where close interactions are common. The RBC has outlined essential actions for schools to adopt immediately to address this.

Proactive screening and hygiene measures

According to the RBC, a key prevention strategy is the early identification of potential mpox cases. Schools were instructed to conduct health screenings at entrances on the first day of classes. Screening should be maintained daily, with class teachers monitoring students for any signs of mpox and promptly reporting to school administration.

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"We must ensure that mpox symptoms are detected early. This will greatly reduce the likelihood of outbreaks spreading in schools. By working closely with teachers and administrative staff, we can build a safer environment for learners,” said Julien Niyingabira, the Health Communications Division Manager at RBC.

In addition to screening, schools are required to designate safe spaces for isolating suspected cases, while health authorities are notified for further evaluation. Comprehensive training for teachers and staff is also essential to ensure effective screening.

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Preventing transmission

As mpox spreads primarily through contact with infected persons or their belongings, RBC stressed the importance of reinforcing hygiene measures. Schools are urged to promote frequent handwashing with soap and clean running water.

"The simple act of washing hands can help reduce the spread of many infectious diseases, including mpox,” RBC noted in a statement.

The guidelines caution against physical contact with those exhibiting symptoms.

"Students must avoid contact with an infected person or their belongings, especially fomites like clothes and furniture. Schools play a vital role in raising awareness about this among students,” Niyingabira added.

Collaboration for effective monitoring

Close collaboration between schools and local health authorities is noted in the RBC guidelines. District command posts will assist in training staff and monitoring efforts.

"Our goal is to ensure seamless coordination between schools and health authorities so that any potential mpox case is swiftly managed,” noted the RBC statement.

Daily health checks will also be implemented at designated screening areas near school entrances. Students will undergo health screenings before boarding buses, ensuring that only symptom-free individuals return to school.

Raising awareness

Beyond the physical precautions, RBC’s strategy also involves educating the school community about mpox. Students and teachers are urged to know the symptoms of mpox and understand the importance of self-reporting, highlighting the symptoms of mpox including fever, muscle aches, and a rash, which can appear on various parts of the body.

Schools are also encouraged to continually inform students and staff about the importance of prevention and the correct procedures if someone has been exposed to the virus.

Community effort

Recognising that schools are high-risk environments for infectious diseases, RBC highlighted the need for proactive efforts, noting that "schools are at the heart of our communities.”

"When we protect our learners, we protect our families and neighbors as well.”

For further information about guidelines for the prevention and management of mpox, the public is heartened to call the toll-free number 114 or command post +250787861407.