The opposition People’s National Party is urging the government to ensure that Mpox isolation areas are secure.

The appeal follows the World Health Organisation’s declaration of Mpox as a global public health emergency on August 14.

In response to this threat, surveillance at the country’s ports of entry has been heightened.

However, junior opposition spokesperson for health and wellness Jesse James Clarke, wants more to be done.

Speaking with reporters, Mr. Clarke said there should be strict adherence to isolation protocols for those affected, or awaiting confirmation of the disease.

Jamaica’s first Mpox, formerly Monkeypox case was recorded in July 2022.

That patient reportedly fled the isolation facility, posing a risk to others.

Since then, 20 other people tested positive for Mpox, the last case of which was recorded in March last year.

There is no current case of the virus in the country. However, Mr. Clarke says, Mpox isolation facilities must be secure to prevent a repeat of the 2022 incident.