Le Myanmar recently announced a new health initiative aimed at reinforcing the safety of travellers. From 22 August 2024all travellers entering its territory will be required to complete a specific health form for Mpox. This measure is part of a worldwide epidemiological alert, particularly in response to an upsurge in cases of the disease in several regions. The Myanmar government is aware of the public health issues at stake, and is taking action to prevent the importation of the virus and protect the population.
Since 22 August 2024, the Myanmar government has introduced a new public health measure requiring that all travellers entering the country complete a specific health form for Mpox. This decision comes against a worrying international health backdrop, marked by an upsurge in cases of Mpox, particularly in Central Africa. The aim of this initiative is to prevent the introduction of the virus into Burma and to protect public health.
Global epidemiological context
The introduction of this health form is the result of an in-depth public health emergency declared by the World Health Organization (WHO) on 14 August 2024. This declaration follows an increase in cases of Mpox clade 1, particularly in the Democratic Republic of Congo and neighbouring countries. The emergence of a new, more transmissible and potentially more deadly strain of the virus has reinforced the need for preventive action at global level.
In response to this situation, other countries such as the Philippinesthe Nigeria, l'Indonesia And Brunei have also introduced similar measures. Although Myanmar has not yet been seriously affected, it must remain vigilant in the face of this persistent health threat.
Details of the Mpox health form
Le Mpox health form to be completed on arrival is made up of several sections structured to assess the risk of importing the virus. Travellers will be asked to provide essential personal information such as :
Personal information
- Full name
- Date of birth
- Passport number
- Nationality
- Country of residence
Next, the form requires a travel history exhaustive, including :
Travel history
- Countries visited in the last 21 days
- Dates of stay in each country
- Reason for trip (tourism, business, humanitarian, etc.)
To assess potential risks, it is also essential to mention :
Risk assessment
- Contact with confirmed or suspected cases of Mpox
- Participation in high-risk events
- Visiting forested areas or contact with wild animals
Finally, the form looks at thecurrent state of health for travellers. The sections concerned include :
Current state of health
- Presence of symptoms compatible with Mpox (fever, rash, etc.)
- Relevant medical history
Additional control measures
At the same time as submitting this form, Myanmar has increased its arrival control measures for travellers. These include:
- Systematic temperature control.
- A visual inspection of passengers to detect any possible skin rashes.
- Immediate isolation of suspected cases for in-depth medical assessment.
Implications for travellers
Travellers to Myanmar should allow time to complete this form before arrival. The health authorities recommend printing a version of the form before departure, although a paper version is also available on arrival. This is intended to smooth customs clearance and minimise waiting times at the airport.
Global public health strategy
The creation and implementation of this form is part of a global strategy to monitor and prevent the importation of Mpox cases. While Myanmar has not been affected by a significant previous epidemic, its geographical location requires heightened vigilance. Its proximity to densely populated countries, often with vulnerable health systems, places Myanmar on the list of countries requiring rigorous health measures.
Comparison of health requirements for travellers to Myanmar
| Type of information | Details |
| Health form | Mandatory for all travellers entering Myanmar. |
| Implementation date | 22 August 2024. |
| Sections of the form | Personal information, travel history, risk assessment, state of health. |
| Additional control measures | Temperature control, visual inspection, isolation of suspected cases. |
| Main objective | Preventing the importation and spread of Mpox. |
| Epidemiological context | Public health emergency declared by the WHO on 14 August 2024. |
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