Government Ramps Up Vigilance Amid Global Mpox Surge

The Indian central government has increased vigilance at airports, ports, and borders due to a global rise in Mpox cases. Three hospitals are prepped for isolation, and enhanced surveillance measures are in place. No Mpox cases have been reported in India to date.

The Indian central government has instructed airport, port, and border authorities to remain on high alert in response to the global increase in Mpox cases, sources say. Officials confirmed to ANI that airports, ports, and borders with Bangladesh and Pakistan have been alerted. Three major hospitals, including Safdarjung, Ram Manohar Lohia, and Lady Hardinge, are equipped for isolation.

Officials stated that the Union Health Ministry has been in discussions with experts about the new Mpox virus, which differs from the previous Monkeypox virus. A recent meeting with state representatives and the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) emphasized the need for alertness at points of entry. The virus is self-limiting and unrelated to COVID-19, with symptoms similar to chickenpox. Testing facilities are available at 32 ICMR centers, and hospitals have designated nodal officers.

Although the Mpox virus has high mortality rates, the chances of it affecting India are low. This information follows a review meeting led by PK Mishra, Principal Secretary to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The country is currently implementing enhanced surveillance measures for prompt detection and response. No Mpox cases have been reported in India, and the risk of a large, sustained outbreak is deemed low. The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared Mpox a public health emergency of international concern but has not issued travel advisories.