Health Authorities Conduct High-Level Review Meeting
Delhi, India – In a concerning development, a 34-year-old man from the national capital has tested positive for the monkeypox virus, marking the fourth reported case of the disease in India. The Centre held a high-level review meeting to discuss the situation, emphasizing the need for swift action.
The meeting, chaired by the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) and attended by officials from the Health Ministry, National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), and ICMR, aimed to assess the current situation and plan necessary measures to prevent the further spread of the disease.
Recent Stag Party in Manali Linked to Infection
According to official sources, the newly infected patient, a resident of West Delhi, had recently attended a stag party in Manali, Himachal Pradesh. Despite having no history of foreign travel, the individual contracted the monkeypox virus. Currently, the patient is under recovery and receiving treatment at a designated isolation center at the Lok Nayak Hospital.
National Institute of Virology Confirms Positive Test
Union Health Ministry officials confirmed that the patient’s samples were sent to the National Institute of Virology (NIV) in Pune, which confirmed the positive monkeypox test result. The identification and isolation of close contacts of the infected individual have been carried out in accordance with the guidelines set by the Ministry of Health.
Monkeypox Declared Global Public Health Emergency of International Concern
In a separate development, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared monkeypox a global public health emergency of international concern. This decision highlights the urgency and importance of coordinated efforts to contain the spread of the disease and protect public health.
Health authorities in India continue to monitor the situation closely, emphasizing the need for heightened surveillance, prompt reporting of suspected cases, and adherence to preventive measures. The Ministry of Health has urged the public to remain vigilant and follow recommended hygiene practices to minimize the risk of contracting or spreading the monkeypox virus.
As the number of monkeypox cases in India rises, it is crucial for individuals to be aware of the symptoms, such as fever, rash, and swollen lymph nodes, and seek medical attention if they experience these signs. Furthermore, strict adherence to hand hygiene, avoiding contact with animals that may carry the virus, and practicing respiratory etiquette can help in preventing the transmission of monkeypox.
