Mpox (previously named monkeypox) is caused by infection with mpox virus, a member of the genus Orthopoxvirus in the family Poxviridae. There are currently more than 80 poxviruses known to science and these poxviruses have been isolated from different species of birds, insects, reptiles, marsupials, and mammals. Poxviruses that may cause human disease include the smallpox (or variola) virus and molluscum contagiosum virus.
Mpox has been historically reported in several countries from West and Central Africa (WCA). This distribution of mpox virus is attributed to the fact that it is naturally harboured by animals that are found in this part of Africa. It is believed that rodents, most likely certain species of squirrels found in the deeply forested areas of this region of Africa, maybe the natural host of the virus. Mpox infections in humans have historically been noted in these countries albeit at a relatively low level.
In countries where the natural animal host of the virus is found, the mpox virus may be spread from handling infected bush meat, an animal bite or scratch, body fluids, and contaminated objects. Cases of mpox spreading through animals, outside of the endemic areas, are very rare but may involve the exotic pet trade or potentially through contact with infected animal-derived materials such as skins and leather. Person-to-person transmission involves close contact with an infected person or materials that have been contaminated by an infected person.
The incubation period (time from infection to symptoms) for mpox is on average 7−14 days but can range from 5−21 days. Initial symptoms include fever, headache, muscle aches, backache, chills, and exhaustion. Within 1-3 days of onset of disease, blister-like lesions will develop on the face, and the extremities including soles of the feet and palms of the hands. The lesions may however occur on other parts of the body.
Salons and spas involve close physical contact between staff and clients, making it crucial to implement specific measures to prevent the spread of MPOX.
Preventative Steps:
Avoid Contact: Avoid contact with potentially infected animals or humans.
Hand Hygiene: Wash hands regularly with soap and water or use hand sanitizer.
Protective Equipment: Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as masks and gloves.
Vaccination: Consider getting vaccinated with the smallpox vaccine, which provides protection against MPOX.
How Salon and Spa Employers can assist employees with MPOX awareness:
1. Education and Training:
Informative Sessions: Organize workshops or webinars tailored to the salon and spa environment to educate staff about MPOX, its symptoms, transmission methods, and prevention strategies.
Educational Materials: Provide accessible materials such as posters, flyers, and digital content that highlight key information about MPOX and are specific to salon and spa settings.
2. Health and Safety Policies:
Sick Leave Policies: Ensure that employees can stay home if they show symptoms of MPOX without fear of losing their jobs or income. Clearly communicate these policies to all staff.
Flexible Scheduling: Offer flexible scheduling to accommodate staff who may need to stay home due to illness or exposure to the virus.
3. Promoting Hygiene:
Hand Hygiene: Install hand sanitizing stations at key locations such as entrances, treatment rooms, and break areas. Encourage regular handwashing with soap and water, especially before and after each client service.
Cleaning Protocols: Implement rigorous cleaning and disinfection protocols, focusing on high-touch surfaces such as treatment chairs, tools, counters, door handles, and restroom facilities. Use EPA-approved disinfectants effective against the monkeypox virus.
4. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
Provide PPE: Supply masks, gloves, and face shields to employees, particularly for those providing close-contact services. Ensure clients also wear masks where possible.
Training on PPE Use: Conduct training sessions on the correct use, removal, and disposal of PPE to prevent contamination.
5. Vaccination Support:
Vaccine Information: Provide employees with information about the smallpox vaccine, which offers protection against MPOX. Include details on where and how they can get vaccinated.
Vaccination Drives: Partner with local health departments or clinics to facilitate vaccination for employees, potentially organizing on-site vaccination clinics if feasible.
6. Client Communication:
Pre-Appointment Screening: Implement pre-appointment health screenings for clients, asking about symptoms or recent exposure to MPOX.
Appointment Policies: Inform clients of the salon’s health and safety measures and encourage them to reschedule if they are feeling unwell.
7. Mental Health Support:
Counseling Services: Provide access to mental health resources and counseling services to help employees manage anxiety or stress related to MPOX.
Open Communication: Foster an environment where employees feel comfortable discussing their health concerns without fear of stigma.
8. Monitoring and Response:
Health Monitoring: Encourage employees to self-monitor for symptoms and provide clear instructions on what steps to take if symptoms appear.
Incident Response Plan: Develop a comprehensive action plan for responding to potential cases of MPOX in the salon or spa, including isolation procedures and communication strategies.
By implementing these measures, salon, and spa employers can create a safer environment for both employees and clients, ensuring that everyone is well-informed and protected against the risks of MPOX.
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