Statement on Mpox Ahead of ICM’s Regional Conferences
As we prepare for our upcoming regional conferences in Kigali and Berlin, we want to reassure all delegates that the health and safety of our attendees is our top priority. Our team at ICM are closely monitoring the ongoing situation with mpox; we are staying informed through regular updates from national health authorities and global health organisations and public health authorities.
What is the current situation?
Currently, the WHO Dashboard on Mpox identifies that the countries with the majority of cases of mpox are Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Burundi, and Central African Republic. The number of confirmed cases in Rwanda remains very low (total of 4 as of 18 August 2024). Germany has also reported a small number of cases (29 in July 2024).
How does mpox spread?
Mpox is transmitted to people by close contact with infected animals or people, or by touching virus-contaminated materials. It enters the body through (often invisible) injuries or wounds in the skin, or the mucous membranes. Evidence is still emerging regarding transmission routes and transmission dynamics in the clade I outbreak in DRC and other African countries, but multiple modes are being reported, including sexual and household transmission (ECDC, 2024).
What are mpox symptoms?
Symptoms of mpox include fever, rash, and swollen lymph nodes. The rash typically progresses through several stages: macules, papules, vesicles, pustules, and finally crusting and desquamation over a period of 2 to 3 weeks. Other symptoms can include headache, muscle aches, chills, and exhaustion.
Delegates who have any of these symptoms should not attend the conference; if traveling from other countries, they will be stopped by border screenings.
Public health measures at ICM’s conferences
We recognise the concerns that participants may have regarding the mpox outbreak, and we are taking proactive steps to address them. We are implementing precautionary measures in line with the latest recommendations at the event itself – this includes timely communications on public health measures ahead of the events, enhanced hygiene protocols, availability of sanitation stations, and guidance on best practices to minimise the risk of transmission, in alignment with public health authorities’ advice.
In addition to these measures, we are prepared to adapt our plans as the situation evolves. Should any new developments occur, we will communicate these promptly to all registered attendees. Our goal is to provide a safe environment where delegates can focus on the valuable opportunities for learning, networking, and collaboration that our regional conferences offer.
Stay informed and monitor travel and health advisories
We also encourage attendees to stay informed about mpox and to follow any travel or health advisories issued by relevant authorities; we have included some links below for you to check.
Delegates should note advice from government agencies in their own countries, especially in relation to vaccinations for which they may be eligible
If you have any concerns or questions about the precautions being taken, please do not hesitate to reach out to our regional conference teams (kigali@icmregionals.org; berlin@icmregionals.org). Also please ensure you have adequate health insurance cover when attending our conferences.
Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. We look forward to welcoming you to our regional conferences in September and November and appreciate your trust as we navigate this situation together.