India Reports First Suspected Case of Mpox in Traveller

India Reports First Suspected Case of Mpox in Traveller

Bengaluru: India has recorded a suspected case of mpox, detected in a man who recently travelled from a country affected by the virus outbreak. The health ministry announced on Sunday that the patient is currently isolated in a hospital and in stable condition, following established protocols to manage the situation.

Although the specific strain of the mpox virus is yet to be confirmed, tests are being conducted to verify the infection. Contact tracing efforts are also ongoing to identify potential sources and assess the virus's impact within the country.

What is Mpox? Mpox, previously referred to as monkeypox, is a viral disease transmitted through close physical contact with an infected individual. It presents flu-like symptoms, including fever, muscle aches, and swollen lymph nodes, followed by skin rashes and pus-filled lesions that may appear on the face, hands, and other parts of the body. Although mpox is generally mild, it can be fatal in rare cases, especially among individuals with compromised immune systems.

India on High Alert India has been on alert since last month when a new, more virulent strain of mpox was identified in Africa. The World Health Organization (WHO) has recognized the outbreak of this new strain as a public health emergency of international concern. The Indian health ministry has been preparing for such cases, implementing screening measures and protocols for managing suspected and confirmed cases.

From 2022 to March 2024, India identified 30 cases of the older mpox strain, known as clade 2. However, this recent case could potentially involve the new, more dangerous variant that has been spreading in Africa.

Precautionary Measures While the new suspected case is being managed per standard protocols, the health ministry urges citizens to be cautious, especially those who may have had close contact with the patient. Contact tracing is crucial in identifying potential sources of infection and preventing the virus from spreading further.

The public is advised to remain vigilant and adhere to health safety measures, including regular hand washing, avoiding close contact with symptomatic individuals, and seeking medical advice if they develop flu-like symptoms.

As this case unfolds, health authorities continue to closely monitor the situation, prepared to implement additional preventive measures as necessary.