On September 8, India reported its first suspected case of Mpox. As per the Union Health Ministry, the young male patient is currently stable and kept in an isolation ward in Safdarjung Hospital, Delhi. Following this, the Union Health Secretary Apurva Chandra issued an advisory for all the states and union territories regarding the screening, testing and surveillance for this disease. Read on to know more about the precautionary measure, symptoms, and more about Mpox.
Health Ministry Issues Advisory After India Reports First Mpox Case
The first suspected case of Mpox (monkeypox) was reported in India on September 8. As per the notification issued, a young male patient, who recently travelled from a country currently experiencing Mpox outbreak, has been identified as a suspect case of Mpox in the country. His condition is stable and he is being kept under observation in an isolation ward in Safdarjung Hospital, Delhi.
On September 9, Union Health Secretary Apurva Chandra issued an advisory for all the states and union territories regarding Mpox screening, testing and surveillance. As per The Times of India, the ministry has directed the states to ensure the isolation of confirmed monkeypox cases. They have also emphasised contract tracing to prevent deaths due to the disease.
The ministry has also issued a list of laboratories operationalised to undertake testing, clinical management protocols, and advisory about infection prevention and control practices. They have also asked all states to take appropriate actions to make people more aware of the disease.
Guidelines Issued Regarding Precautionary Measures & Symptom
As per reports, Mpox has been declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEC). The Union Health Ministry has issued several guidelines regarding precautionary measures and symptoms for the states to educate the people about the risks of this disease.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), Mpox has been observed in patients who are usually men aged between 18 and 44 years.
Here are some symptoms of Mpox to watch out for –
1. rash (systemic or genital)
2. fever
3. sore throat
4. headache
5. muscle aches
6. back pain
7. low energy
8. swollen lymph nodes
As per WHO, one must treat and take care of the rash if they have been infected by Mpox. Early and supportive care is essential to manage symptoms and avoid further problems.
Preventive measures if you notice symptoms or have come in contact with an infected person –
1. Stay isolated in a well-ventilated room.
2. Maintain proper hygiene. Wash hands with soap and water or hand sanitiser.
3. Make sure to wear a mask.
4. Cover the rash when around other people until your lesions heal.
5. Do not pop blisters or scratch sores.
6. Seek medical assistance.
Please keep these few things in mind. Also, avoid getting in contact with people who have recently travelled to countries where there has been a Mpox outbreak. Take care and watch out for more updates on this disease.
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva (representative image)
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