The Union Health Ministry of India has taken proactive steps to address the Mpox (formerly known as Monkeypox) situation, following global concerns about the disease. In response to the World Health Organization’s (WHO) classification of Mpox as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC), the ministry has issued instructions to increase vigilance at international borders and strengthen the country’s preparedness.
Airports and land port authorities at the borders with Bangladesh and Pakistan have been directed to be on the lookout for international travelers exhibiting symptoms of Mpox. This measure aims to prevent the potential entry of the virus into India and to control its spread if cases do arise.
In order to ensure that any potential cases can be effectively managed, the health ministry has advised state governments to identify similar facilities in their regions. Three hospitals in New Delhi have been designated as key centers for the isolation, management, and treatment of Mpox patients: Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, Safdarjung Hospital, and Lady Hardinge Medical College.
On Sunday, P.K. Mishra, the principal secretary to the prime minister, led a high-level meeting to review India’s preparedness for Mpox. Despite the global alarm, officials reported no current cases of Mpox in India, and the current assessment suggests that the risk of a large outbreak with sustained transmission remains low.
Mpox has been a major concern worldwide. Since 2022, the WHO has recorded 99,176 cases and 208 deaths from Mpox across 116 countries. The number of cases has been steadily increasing in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The strain of the virus that is currently circulating is known to be more virulent and infectious than previous strains.
The Indian Health Ministry has instructed officials to enhance surveillance systems and implement measures for the early detection of Mpox cases. It is crucial for testing laboratories to be prepared for rapid diagnosis, and as of now, 32 laboratories across India are equipped for Mpox testing.
Mishra emphasized the need for a comprehensive awareness campaign among healthcare providers to ensure they are informed about the signs and symptoms of Mpox. The goal is to ensure timely notification of any suspected cases to the surveillance system to prevent further spread.
Globally, Mpox cases have surged significantly, with over 15,600 cases and 537 deaths reported this year alone, surpassing last year’s totals. In India, 30 Mpox cases have been reported since 2022, with the most recent case detected in March 2024. The country’s health authorities are focusing on prevention, early detection, and effective management to mitigate the impact of this disease.
SOURCE :
THE ECONOMIC TIMES
