On August 14th, the WHO declared Mpox disease a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) due to its widespread prevalence. Currently, the virus’s strain is more virulent and infectious, raising concerns. According to an earlier WHO report, Mpox has caused 99,176 cases and 208 deaths across 116 countries since 2022. Notably, the Democratic Republic of Congo has seen a steady increase in cases. Even though the risk in India remains low, thankfully, India has swiftly implemented the necessary measures. Know the Mpox symptoms and transmission, and look into the management of Mpox disease in India.
Key Symptoms of Mpox Disease
Mpox disease, formerly known as monkeypox, is a severe viral infection caused by the mpox virus (MPXV). It typically presents with fever, headaches, muscle aches, and pox-like rashes. Although often self-limiting, Mpox can be tragically fatal, especially for children and those with weakened immune systems.
From Wildlife to Humans: Transmission of Mpox Disease
The Mpox virus transmits potentially through both animals and humans.
Mpox virus spreads through close contact, including skin-to-skin contact with rashes or scabs. It also spreads via saliva or bodily fluids. Pregnant individuals can transmit the virus to their fetus or newborn. Intimate activities, as simple as a handshake can increase the risk. Additionally, prolonged face-to-face interactions pose a significant risk. Moreover, the virus can spread through contaminated items, such as clothing, bedding, and towels, that haven’t been disinfected.
A person can spread the pox from the onset of symptoms until the rash has completely healed and a fresh layer of skin forms. The CDC is actively monitoring new information on Mpox transmission to provide the most up-to-date guidance.
Mpox Virus also spreads from animals to people through contact with infected wild animals in West and Central Africa. This includes direct contact with fluids or waste, or being bitten or scratched. Activities like hunting or processing these animals also increase risk. While less common, pets can transmit Mpox through close contact, such as petting. To minimize risk, avoid close contact with potentially infected animals and ensure those with pox do not interact with animals, including pets.
India’s Mpox Disease Management
India reported severe Mpox disease cases during the 2022 global outbreak, involving the less deadly Clade II type. Initially, infections were limited to travelers from Kerala. However, cases later appeared in Delhi among individuals without international travel histories. In total, India reported 27 laboratory-confirmed cases and one death. This susceptibility likely prompted India’s swift implementation of necessary measures to combat Mpox disease in India.
In response to the global spread of Mpox, India’s Union Health Ministry has heightened vigilance at international airports and land ports. The focus is on detecting and isolating passengers with Mpox symptoms. However, India has not reported any cases of Mpox disease yet. Still, the government is proactively implementing measures to prevent its spread. Moreover, officials report a low risk of widespread transmission, but enhanced surveillance is crucial for early detection and containment.
Strategic Management: Designated Hospitals, and Vaccines
To manage potential cases of Mpox disease in India effectively, the ministry has designated three central government hospitals in New Delhi—Ram Manohar Lohia, Safdarjung, and Lady Hardinge Medical College—as nodal centers for isolation and treatment. Additionally, all state governments must identify and prepare local hospitals to handle Mpox cases. This proactive, decentralized approach aims to ensure prompt and efficient medical care nationwide.
Moreover, the ministry has instructed the network of testing laboratories to be fully prepared for the early diagnosis of Mpox disease in India. Currently, 32 laboratories across India are equipped to test for the virus. This proactive measure aims to enhance the speed and accuracy of diagnosing Mpox, enabling timely intervention and management of any potential cases.
Staying Ahead of The Virus
The current strain of the virus is more virulent and infectious, raising concerns even though the risk of a major outbreak of Mpox disease in India remains low. In these circumstances, staying informed about the disease is crucial to maintaining this low risk and preventing a significant outbreak.
