India on high alert as global monkeypox cases surge
India has heightened its vigilance at airports, ports, and borders with Bangladesh and Pakistan due to the rising global cases of monkeypox (mpox). The Centre has instructed these authorities to closely monitor incoming international passengers for potential symptoms of this disease. This move comes as part of a broader strategy to prevent the spread of mpox within the country.
Delhi hospitals designated as quarantine centers
In Delhi, three state-run hospitals have been identified as primary facilities for quarantining, managing, and treating mpox patients. These include the Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, Safdarjung Hospital, and Lady Hardinge Hospital. The central government has also directed all states to prepare their hospitals for potential mpox cases and designate them as nodal centers.
PM's principal secretary reviews India's readiness for mpox
PK Mishra, the Principal Secretary to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, led a meeting on Sunday to assess India's readiness for mpox. This discussion was part of an increased surveillance effort aimed at early detection of the disease. Amid these preparations, officials have confirmed that no mpox case has been reported in India so far and the risk of a large outbreak with sustained transmission is low based on current assessments.
WHO declares mpox a global public health emergency
The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared mpox a global public health emergency due to its widespread prevalence and transmission in several parts of Africa. An official stated, "The virus strain this time is different and is more virulent and infectious. But the risk of a large outbreak with sustained transmission is low in the country as per the current assessment."
India's testing network
In response, the Health Ministry has directed officials to ensure the readiness of testing laboratories for early mpox diagnosis. Currently, 32 labs across India are equipped for testing. According to WHO, since 2022, 99,176 cases and 208 deaths from mpox have been reported globally. This year alone, over 15,600 cases and 537 deaths have occurred, surpassing last year's total. India has reported at least 30 cases since 2022, with the most recent case detected in March this year.
