The World Health Organization (WHO) declared the Monkeypox virus a global health emergency on July 23. This rare designation means the WHO now views the outbreak as a significant threat to global health and that a coordinated international response is
needed.
More than 16,000 cases of Monkeypox have been reported across 70 countries in 2022. The number of confirmed infections rose 77% from late June through early July, according to WHO data. In the United States, more than 2,890 Monkeypox cases have been detected
with cases in all but 6 states, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
On July 25, it was reported that the first Monkeypox cases were diagnosed in children. On July 26, Anthony Fauci, Chief Medical Advisor to the President of the United States, said that Monkeypox emergency declaration in the United States is under “active
consideration.”
As reported in our June post, the EPA has added the Monkeypox virus to their emerging
viral pathogen policy. A virus is added to this policy when there is no EPA-approved protocol set in place. Under this policy, there are 10 Betco disinfectant products recommended by the EPA’s List Q Disinfectants for Emerging Viral Pathogens for use against Monkeypox:
These disinfectants have demonstrated effectiveness against viruses similar to Monkeypox on hard, non-porous surfaces. Therefore, they can be used against the Monkeypox virus when used per the directions on the product label.
In addition to cleaning and disinfecting hard, non-porous surfaces to reduce the spread of Monkeypox, the EPA also recommends the following prevention methods:
- Practice proper hand hygiene.
- Launder infected clothing, bedding, and towels in warm water. Bleach may be added but is not necessary.
- Infected dishes or eating utensils should be isolated and washed separately in a dishwasher or by hand with warm water and soap.
The Monkeypox virus dates back to 1958 when the pox-like disease occurred in colonies of monkeys kept for research. Transmission of the virus happens when a person comes into contact with the virus from an animal, human, or materials that are contaminated
with Monkeypox. Human transmission occurs primarily through large respiratory droplets or indirect contact through clothing or linens.
For more information about Monkeypox, click here. To get in touch with a Betco representative, click here.
*Disinfectant dilution only (3.5 oz/5-gal water)