India Heightens Preparedness Against Mpox Amid WHO’s Public Health Emergency Declaration

Prime Minister's Principal Secretary P K Mishra chaired a high-level meeting to review India’s preparedness for Mpox. Enhanced surveillance is underway despite no current cases. The World Health Organisation has declared Mpox a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. Precautionary measures include sensitisation of health teams and rolling out protocols for prompt detection.

Prime Minister's Principal Secretary P K Mishra chaired a high-level meeting on Sunday to assess India's preparedness for Mpox amid heightened surveillance efforts.

According to a statement, no Mpox cases have been reported in India, with the risk of a major outbreak deemed low at present. However, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has classified Mpox as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern due to its spread in parts of Africa.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is closely monitoring the situation. During the meeting, it was highlighted that Mpox infections are generally self-limiting, lasting between two to four weeks, with patients typically recovering under supportive care. Transmission happens via prolonged contact with an infected individual.