The threat of monkeypox (Mpox), which has spread from Central Africa to other parts of the world, is now increasing in India as well. Following reports of Mpox-positive cases in neighboring countries Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (POK), the Centre has issued an alert while designating three hospitals in Delhi as nodal centers for Mpox. Surveillance at borders and airports has been enhanced. Presently, there is no reported case of Mpox in the country.
At the Lady Hardinge Medical College, RML Hospital, and Safdarjung Hospital in Delhi isolation wards have been established to treat and monitor Mpox patients. Any patient testing positive for Mpox, a viral disease caused by the mpox virus can be admitted to these hospitals.
In addition, at All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) New Delhi, Dr. Reema Dada, Professor and Media Cell In-Charge, informed that AIIMS has reserved five beds for suspected monkeypox cases. If any patient shows symptoms of Mpox or is suspected of having it, they will be shifted to these beds for treatment.
In addition to the central government, the Delhi government's Lok Nayak Jai Prakash Hospital has also established an isolation ward for Mpox patients. The management has stated that, although no Mpox patients have yet been admitted to the hospital, any future cases will be placed in this ward.
Dr. Jugal Kishore, Director Professor and Head of Community Medicine at Vardhman Mahavir Medical College & Safdarjung Hospital in the national capital, explained that mpox symptoms are similar to those of chickenpox or smallpox and include sores, blisters, rashes, or pimples on the face or body, potentially containing yellow pus. Other symptoms can include itching, vomiting, fever, headache, muscle stiffness, and lethargy.
Although no Mpox cases have been reported in India so far, Dr. Kishore advised taking precautionary measures, such as avoiding crowded places when possible and maintaining distance if unavoidable. He also suggested washing hands upon returning home, avoiding contact with immunocompromised individuals, and refraining from touching the eyes or nose if hands are contaminated. Since chickenpox is common in India and could be confused with Mpox, he emphasized the importance of visiting a doctor if there is any doubt or Mpox symptoms are noticed.
The central government has also ordered the enhancement of laboratory networks to test this disease in response to the global emergency. Currently, 32 laboratories are designated for Mpox testing.
However, as a precautionary measure, the Centre has asked officials at land ports on the borders with Bangladesh and Pakistan, as well as all airports to remain alert. The officials have been asked to remain alert about international passengers reporting Mpox symptoms.
Pakistan reported three cases of Mpox so far. "The virus has been classified as Clade 2b," the official added.
According to the WHO, since 2022, 99,176 cases of Mpox have been reported across 116 countries, with 208 deaths attributed to the disease.