New Delhi: As mpox has been declared a global public health emergency by the World Health Organization (WHO), the Indian government has ramped up precautionary measures to prevent the spread of the virus. Health Ministry sources have confirmed that hospitals and airports across the country have been put on high alert to tackle any potential outbreaks.Hospitals on standby for isolation, testingIn response to the global health emergency, the government has instructed hospitals to be vigilant in identifying patients exhibiting symptoms such as rashes, which are commonly associated with mpox. Hospitals have been directed to establish dedicated isolation wards for suspected cases. Three major hospitals in Delhi—Safdarjung, Lady Hardinge Medical College, and Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital—have been specifically designated to handle such cases.To ensure prompt diagnosis, RT-PCR tests and nasal swabs will be conducted on suspected patients. These measures are part of a broader strategy to contain the virus, should it emerge in India.Airports alerted for precautionary measuresIn addition to hospital preparations, airports have also been alerted to implement necessary precautions. This move aims to detect and isolate any incoming passengers who may be carrying the virus, thereby preventing its potential spread within the country.Global concern of MpoxThe WHO has declared mpox a global public health emergency for the second time in two years due to the emergence of a new, more potent strain of the virus. This strain appears to spread more easily through close contact, including sexual contact, raising concerns worldwide.Although India has not yet reported any cases of the new mpox strain, neighboring Pakistan detected three cases on August 16, involving individuals who had recently traveled from the UAE. Previously, Sweden reported the first case of mpox outside of Africa.Health Ministry sources noted that between June 2022 and May 2023, India recorded 30 mpox cases, primarily among foreigners. They also warned that the new strain could result in a higher mortality rate compared to previous outbreaks.Officials have reassured the public that individuals who have received the smallpox vaccine are unlikely to contract mpox. At present, there is no requirement for a new vaccine.
