Monkeypox Vigilance Heightened in India

The Union Health Ministry of India has announced new measures regarding monkeypox as the virus spreads rapidly in the Democratic Republic of Congo and several other African countries.

Officials have noted that a virulent strain of the virus is circulating, which has a death rate of 3%, significantly higher than the less aggressive version at 0.1%. To keep everyone safe, the ministry has alerted hospitals and doctors to be on the lookout for any patients exhibiting symptoms of monkeypox.

As of now, there are no reported cases of monkeypox in India, but the officials mentioned that the risk of a large outbreak remains low. They emphasized that while the chance of imported cases could rise in the coming weeks, it’s important not to panic, as protective measures are being put in place.

In reaction to the rise in cases overseas, the World Health Organization recently called monkeypox a Public Health Emergency of International Concern again this August. They highlighted the sharp increase in infections, which have surged by 160% compared to last year.

India has designated three major hospitals in Delhi, including Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, Safdarjung Hospital, and Lady Hardinge Medical College, to manage and treat any potential monkeypox patients. These facilities will be key to ensuring timely responses should the need arise.

Health officials are also focusing on boosting surveillance efforts, bolstering testing capabilities across the country. Currently, there are 32 laboratories ready to handle monkeypox diagnoses.

P K Mishra, principal secretary to the Prime Minister, chaired a meeting to discuss national preparedness for monkeypox. He urged the importance of public awareness campaigns to educate healthcare providers and the public about the disease and its symptoms.

Overall, while the monkeypox situation is evolving globally, Indian health authorities are taking proactive steps to ensure the virus does not spread within the country.