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India Gears Up for Mpox Outbreak: Health Ministry Issues Guidelines for Airports and Hospitals

-By ArdorComm News Network

The Union Health Ministry has instructed airports and land ports, especially along the Bangladesh and Pakistan borders, to remain vigilant for travelers displaying Mpox symptoms, according to a PTI report. The move comes as part of India’s heightened preparedness for a potential outbreak of the virus, which the World Health Organization (WHO) has declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern.

To bolster the country’s response, three hospitals in New Delhi—Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, Safdarjung Hospital, and Lady Hardinge Medical College—have been designated as key centers for isolating, managing, and treating Mpox patients. State governments have been directed to identify similar facilities within their jurisdictions.

In a high-level meeting convened by P K Mishra, principal secretary to the prime minister, officials confirmed that no active Mpox cases have been detected in India. However, surveillance efforts and testing capabilities are being ramped up across the country to ensure early detection and containment. Despite the more virulent strain of the virus currently circulating, the risk of a large-scale outbreak with sustained transmission remains low, according to current assessments.

Globally, the WHO reports over 99,000 Mpox cases and 208 deaths across 116 countries since 2022. The Democratic Republic of Congo has witnessed a steady increase in cases, underscoring the need for ongoing vigilance.

The Indian health ministry has emphasized the importance of enhanced surveillance, early diagnosis, and rapid case management. Currently, 32 laboratories across India are equipped to test for Mpox, and the government is working to further expand testing facilities. Mishra also stressed the need for widespread awareness campaigns targeting healthcare providers to ensure they can quickly recognize and report symptoms.

India has reported 30 Mpox cases since 2022, with the latest case detected in March 2024. Although the situation remains under control, officials are taking proactive measures to mitigate any potential outbreak.

Source: Economic Times

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