Kerala on High Alert Following Global Mpox Outbreak

The Kerala Health Department has issued an alert due to mpox outbreaks globally. Vigilance measures include airport screenings, isolating symptomatic cases, and adherence to treatment protocols. State officials urge public caution. The state's health infrastructure is on high alert to prevent the spread of the disease.

The Kerala Health Department on Wednesday issued an alert in response to mpox outbreaks in several countries.

Vigilance measures have been intensified, with surveillance teams deployed at all airports to screen passengers arriving from affected nations. This follows the World Health Organisation's (WHO) declaration of mpox as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) due to its widespread prevalence in Africa.

State Health Minister Veena George announced that passengers arriving from mpox-affected countries will undergo mandatory screening at airports. Symptomatic individuals will be isolated and treated as per the 2022 Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) issued by the state government.

''All government and private hospitals must adhere strictly to the SOP for any mpox symptomatic cases,'' said George in an official statement.

Generally self-limiting, mpox infections last between two to four weeks, with patients typically recovering with supportive care. The disease spreads through prolonged, close contact with infected persons.

To prevent the disease’s spread, the health department has assured the public that all necessary precautions are being implemented and advised vigilance against suspicious symptoms.

In response to the looming mpox threat, Kerala's health infrastructure is on high alert, working diligently to secure the state's safety.

Additionally, a high-level meeting chaired by the Prime Minister's Principal Secretary P K Mishra reviewed readiness for mpox treatment and enhanced surveillance measures were discussed on Sunday.