Amid the growing cases of Monkeypox around the world, India’s central government has directed airport, ports, and border authorities to remain cautious, according to sources. In preparation for any infected individuals, three central hospitals – Safdarjung, RML, and Lady Hardinge – are readying isolation facilities to provide adequate care.
“We have alerted airports, ports, and borders with Bangladesh and Pakistan. Three central hospitals will have facilities for isolation like Safdarjung Hospital, Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, and Lady Hardinge,” officials stated.
The Union Health Ministry has held meetings with experts on the new variant of the Mpox virus that “is different” from the previous Monkeypox virus. The ministry asserts that there is no correlation between Mpox and COVID and that the symptoms of the virus are similar to chickenpox. Testing facilities are available at 32 ICMR centers, and nodal officers are already in hospitals taking all necessary precautions.
The chances of mortality from Monkey Pox are high, but officials feel there is a low chance of an outbreak in India. Monkeypox disease occurs with rashes and is self-limiting.
Recently, Principal Secretary to Prime Minister Narendra Modi PK Mishra led a review meeting to take stock of the nation’s preparedness for Mpox. During the high-level meeting, officials discussed measures to ensure prompt detection and response. According to the present assessment, the risk of a large outbreak with sustained transmission is low but remains a concern. Enhanced surveillance measures are in place to protect the public.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has classified Mpox as a global public health emergency of international concern due to its prevalence in other countries. The Indian authorities have urged the public to consult a doctor immediately if they notice any symptoms.
As always, prevention remains key to containing the spread of infectious diseases. The public should maintain good hygiene and take precautions while traveling to prevent the spread of Monkey Pox. The government has promised to remain vigilant and take necessary steps to prevent the spread of the virus.
