New Delhi, September 27: As the number of Mpox (Monkeypox) cases continues to rise in India. The Union Health Ministry has issued a stern warning to all states and union territories. Urging them to isolate suspected cases and implement strict control measures to prevent the further spread of the virus.
“Previous mpox outbreak that started in 2022 caused by Mpox virus Clade II. The 2024 PHEIC is related to mpox Clade I which is more virulent and transmissible than mpox clade II. This Clade has found outside Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) only during the current outbreak. Outside Africa, one case each of mpox Clade Ib has recently reported from Sweden and Thailand. India is thus the third non-African country to report a case of Clade Ib Mpox infection recently,” the Ministry notified.
In the letter, the Ministry also urged the states to review public preparedness particularly at health facility level at the State and District by senior officials.
“Identification of isolation facilities in hospitals for taking care of both suspect and confirmed cases, availability of required logistics and trained human resources in such facilities and augmentation plan,” it stated.
The ministry has emphasized the importance of early detection, isolation, and treatment of Mpox cases to contain the outbreak. It has directed all states to ensure that suspected cases immediately quarantined and provided with appropriate medical care.
In addition to isolation, the ministry has also advised states to implement the following measures:
1. Contact tracing: Identify individuals who have come into contact with infected persons and monitor them for symptoms.
2. Disinfection: Disinfect public places, healthcare facilities, and the homes of infected individuals.
3. Public awareness campaigns: Conduct awareness campaigns to educate the public about the symptoms, transmission, and prevention of Mpox.
4. Vaccination: Promote vaccination for individuals at high risk of exposure, such as healthcare workers and immunocompromised individuals.
The ministry has also called upon healthcare providers to be vigilant and report any suspected cases of Mpox to the health authorities. Early detection and timely intervention are crucial to prevent the spread of the virus and minimize its impact.
The Mpox outbreak in India has raised concerns about the potential for the virus to spread further and cause a major health crisis. While the number of cases reported so far is relatively low, the risk of a larger outbreak cannot be ruled out.
It is imperative for all stakeholders, including the government, healthcare providers, and the public, to work together to contain the spread of Mpox. By implementing strict control measures and following the guidelines issued by the health ministry, we can help protect our communities and prevent a larger outbreak.
The government has also urged citizens to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to prevent the spread of Monkeypox. This includes maintaining good hygiene, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and seeking medical attention if you experience any symptoms of the virus.
Moreover, the Ministry informed in the advisory that robust diagnostic testing capability is already available; 36 labs supported by ICMR across the country and three commercial PCR kits validated by ICMR that now approved by CDSCO.
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“By implementing the above measures…we can safeguard the health and well-being of individuals and reduce the impact of mpox outbreak. The Ministry will continue to monitor the situation closely…,” it added.