A Liberian-registered ship navigating the Paraná River was isolated a few kilometers from the city of Rosario after a Monkey Pox case was identified among the crew, as confirmed by sources from the Argentine Naval League. Following newspaper reports regarding a procedure to provide medical assistance to the infected individual in San Nicolás, authorities at the port and the local hospital denied this account. Similarly, the Naval Prefecture of San Nicolás denied the existence of such an operation.
From the editorial team of EL NORTE
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On Tuesday evening, health authorities were notified about the presence of a person infected with Monkey Pox aboard a ship in San Lorenzo. The ship’s captain reported that a crew member was suffering from a serious illness and required medical assistance.
One media outlet reported: “The request was made when the ship – which was en route to the oilseed complex to collect cereal – passed through the port of San Nicolás on its way to the province of Santa Fe,” however, the San Felipe Hospital and the Port of San Nicolás confirmed that they had not been informed of any health operation regarding this matter.
Additionally, another media source alleged that in our city: “A medical boat arrived to facilitate the disembarkation of the sick crew member and transfer him to a local hospital to conduct a series of clinical tests and relevant examinations to diagnose his condition,” which was denied by the local hospital authorities and by sources from the San Nicolás Port Management Consortium.
Consequently, the Naval Prefecture of San Nicolás confirmed that no such procedure took place. Meanwhile, the Sanatorio UOM San Nicolás also refuted claims that the infected individual had disembarked in San Nicolás, with sources affirming that “they did not allow him to leave the ship.”
The Port of San Nicolás issued a statement regarding false information
“From the Port of San Nicolás, we aim to clarify the information that has circulated in various media concerning an alleged monkeypox case related to a ship heading to the province of Santa Fe,” the statement began.
They added: “We want to confirm that neither the vessel in question nor its crew set foot on land in San Nicolás.”
“We find it crucial to reassure the community and prevent confusion,” concluded the statement.
The information thus far
A Liberian-flagged grain ship was quarantined this afternoon near the city of San Lorenzo in Santa Fe after a crew member exhibited symptoms consistent with monkeypox.
As a result, the Ministry of Health of the Nation activated the Emergency Protocol, restricting access to the ship to only the organization’s personnel.
Additionally, all crew members are required to remain on board while awaiting the test results from the infected individual.
The captain of the ‘Ina-Lotte,’ arriving from the Brazilian city of Santos and heading to San Lorenzo near Rosario, informed Border Health authorities that one of his crew members, an Indian national, had developed skin lesions on his torso and face, prompting isolation from the rest of the crew.
Consequently, the international public health emergency protocol (ESPII) was activated, medical monitoring for the entire crew and pilot personnel on board was arranged, and samples from the lesions will be collected in accordance with epidemiological surveillance protocols.
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On Wednesday of last week, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared monkeypox an international public health emergency, its highest alert level.
Monkeypox is a viral zoonosis originating in jungle environments caused by a virus in the Orthopoxvirus genus and is primarily found in Central and Western Africa, where tropical forests are prevalent.
The disease can spread through exposure to respiratory droplets and contact with infected skin lesions (including during sexual intercourse) or contaminated materials.
The incubation period ranges from 5 to 21 days, with common symptoms including fever, headache, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, chills, and exhaustion, often accompanied by a rash.
The rash typically starts on the face and then spreads to other areas of the body, including the genitals; the lesions can be extremely itchy or painful.
A Liberian-Flagged Ship Isolated on the Paraná River Due to Monkeypox Case
The Incident Overview
A Liberian-flagged cargo ship, identified as ‘Ina-Lotte’, has been isolated a few kilometers from Rosario on the Paraná River after a suspected case of Monkeypox was reported amongst its crew. The incident was confirmed by sources from the Argentine Naval League, following a report issued on Tuesday evening. The ship was en route from Santos, Brazil, to the oilseed complex near Rosario.
Health Protocol Activation
Upon discovering symptoms consistent with Monkeypox in one crew member, the ship’s captain notified the Border Health authorities. The affected crew member, an Indian national, exhibited skin lesions characterized by rashes on the torso and face, leading to their isolation from the rest of the crew.
In response, the Ministry of Health of Argentina activated the Emergency Protocol known as ESPII (Public Health Emergency of International Interest). Under this protocol:
- Only designated health personnel are permitted to board the ship.
- All crew members must remain on board while being monitored.
- Samples of the lesions from the affected individual will be taken for laboratory testing.
Status of Health Authorities
Much confusion arose when local media outlets suggested that medical assistance would be provided at the port of San Nicolás. Reports indicated that a medical boat was dispatched to transfer the sick crew member to a local hospital for further evaluation and testing. However, authorities from San Felipe Hospital and the Port of San Nicolás have denied being informed about or facilitating such an operation. They released a statement clarifying that:
“Neither the vessel nor its crew touched land in San Nicolás. We consider it essential to reassure the community, avoiding confusion.”
Monkeypox: An Overview
Monkeypox is a viral zoonotic disease caused by the Orthopoxvirus. The disease can be transmitted through respiratory droplets, contact with infected skin lesions, or contaminated items. The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared Monkeypox a public health emergency, the highest alert level, as cases continue to rise globally.
Symptoms of Monkeypox
The symptoms generally begin with:
- Fever
- Headaches
- Muscle Aches
- Swollen Lymph Nodes
- Chills
- Exhaustion
A characteristic rash may develop, starting on the face and spreading to other parts of the body, including the genitals. Lesions can be itchy or painful, further complicating the patient’s condition.
Confirmed Health Measures and Responses
The health response involved monitoring all crew members aboard the Ina-Lotte as they await test results. The public health authorities are maintaining strict health surveillance practices to prevent potential spread. The isolation of the ship serves as a precautionary measure for public safety amidst ongoing concerns about Monkeypox transmission.
Public Reaction and Media Reports
The lack of accurate reporting by some media outlets has drawn scrutiny. Health officials urge the public to rely on verified information from official sources to avoid unnecessary panic. Local authorities have reinforced their commitment to clarity, confirming that all procedures are being adhered to without compromising public safety.
Key Information Summary
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Vessel Name | Ina-Lotte |
| Flag | Liberian |
| Event | Isolation due to suspected Monkeypox case |
| Location | Near Rosario, Argentina |
| Travel Origin | Santos, Brazil |
| Current Status | Quarantined; health monitoring in effect |
Lessons to Learn from This Incident
This incident highlights the importance of effective communication and swift action in public health crises. The activation of health protocols and the immediate isolation of the ship demonstrate the commitment to safeguarding community health. Furthermore, the response urges vigilance regarding the credibility of information sources amidst a health emergency.
Practical Tips for Navigation During Health Crises
- Stay informed through official health channels and government statements.
- Understand the symptoms of contagious diseases to recognize potential threats.
- Practice personal hygiene and maintain social distance during outbreaks.
- Comply with health advisories and follow emergency protocols where applicable.
Given the evolving nature of diseases like Monkeypox, proactive measures remain essential in mitigating risks and protecting public health. Health agencies and authorities continue to work collaboratively across borders to ensure safety and health security for all.
