New Delhi: Amidst the ongoing Mpox outbreak in Africa, India is currently classified as having a very low risk of experiencing a significant rise in Mpox cases, according to recent statements from the Ministry of Health.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has recently declared Mpox a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC), highlighting the need for global vigilance. This declaration underscores the seriousness of the outbreak but does not necessarily indicate a direct threat to every country.
Health ministry officials have assured the public that India’s situation remains stable. The last confirmed Mpox case in India was reported in March 2024 in the state of Kerala. Since the beginning of the outbreak in 2022, India has recorded a total of 30 laboratory-confirmed cases of Mpox. Despite the WHO’s global alert, officials are confident that the risk of a significant increase in cases within India remains minimal.
In response to the WHO’s alert, the Ministry of Health is considering issuing advisories to key points of entry, such as airports and seaports. These advisories would guide authorities to be vigilant and prepared to manage any suspected Mpox cases according to established protocols. This includes measures for isolation and treatment to prevent the spread of the infection.
Union Health Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda is set to conduct a review meeting on Saturday to assess the current situation. The meeting will involve officials from the Ministry of Health, the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), and the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). The focus will be on ensuring that all necessary precautions and measures are in place to protect public health and manage any potential cases effectively.
Health ministry officials have reassured the public that while the WHO’s alert necessitates global awareness, India is well-prepared and the likelihood of a significant Mpox outbreak remains low.