Mpox is primarily transmitted through close physical contact with an infected individual. This transmission can occur through direct contact with Mpox lesions or contaminated materials.
A suspected case of Mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) is currently under investigation in the country following the hospitalization of a young male patient who recently returned from a nation with ongoing Mpox transmission. The patient, whose identity has not been disclosed, has been isolated in a designated hospital and is reported to be in stable condition.
The National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has confirmed that the patient’s samples are undergoing testing to determine if he is indeed infected with Mpox. The NCDC emphasized that the situation is being managed according to established health protocols. In addition, contact tracing efforts are underway to identify anyone who may have been exposed to the virus and to evaluate the potential impact of this case within the country.
The development aligns with earlier risk assessments by the NCDC, which had anticipated the possibility of isolated travel-related cases given the global context. The Centre reassured the public that there is no immediate cause for concern, highlighting that the country is well-equipped to handle such isolated incidents and has comprehensive measures in place to address and mitigate any potential risks.
Last month, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared Mpox a public health emergency of international concern. This declaration came after over 120 countries reported Mpox cases between January 2022 and August 2024, totaling more than 100,000 laboratory-confirmed infections and over 220 deaths globally.
To manage and treat potential cases, three state-run hospitals in Delhi – Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, Safdarjung Hospital, and Lady Hardinge Hospital – were designated as key facilities for quarantine and care. Additionally, the Centre had urged all states to prepare local hospitals as nodal centres for handling mpox cases and to inform the public about these facilities.
Public awareness
In response to the growing concern, the health ministry recently released an informative video titled “Everything You Need to Know About Mpox!” on social media platform X. Dr. Atul Goel, Director General of Health Services, featured prominently in the video to explain key aspects of Mpox, including symptoms, transmission modes, and treatment options.
Dr. Goel detailed that Mpox symptoms closely resemble those of the flu and include fever, body rash, swollen lymph nodes, headache, and fatigue. According to WHO, the rash or mucosal lesions associated with Mpox can last between two to four weeks and are typically accompanied by the aforementioned symptoms.
Unlike airborne viruses such as influenza or COVID-19, Mpox is primarily transmitted through close physical contact with an infected individual. This transmission can occur through direct contact with Mpox lesions or contaminated materials. Consequently, maintaining rigorous hygiene practices and using personal protective equipment is crucial for caregivers and individuals at risk.
The recovery period for Mpox is generally three to four weeks. Although there is no specific antiviral treatment approved solely for Mpox, therapies used for smallpox, such as immune globulin and antiviral medications, may be effective, especially in severe cases.
Dr. Goel also highlighted the role of vaccination in preventing Mpox. The WHO advises that an Mpox vaccine can be effective in preventing infection and can be administered up to 14 days after exposure if symptoms have not yet developed. The vaccine may also be given to individuals who have been in close contact with someone diagnosed with Mpox, with the most effective results when administered within four days of exposure.
Adhere to health guidelines
Authorities say that as investigations continue, health authorities remain vigilant and committed to managing the situation with transparency and expertise. The public has been encouraged to stay informed through official channels and adhere to health guidelines to ensure safety and prevent further spread of the virus.
Earlier, in response to the growing global concern over Mpox in India, the government has instructed airport, port, and border authorities to remain vigilant for international passengers exhibiting symptoms of the disease. The move comes as MPox continues to spread worldwide.
To manage and treat potential cases, three state-run hospitals in Delhi — Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, Safdarjung Hospital, and Lady Hardinge Hospital — have been designated as key facilities for quarantine and care. Additionally, the Centre has urged all states to prepare local hospitals as nodal centres for handling mpox cases and to inform the public about these facilities.
Image: Wikimedia
