In response to the recent surge of Mpox cases in parts of Africa, declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) by the World Health Organization (WHO) in August 2024, the Government of India has intensified its preventive public health measures. The WHO reported 1,03,048 Mpox cases and 229 deaths globally across 121 countries from January 2022 to July 31, 2024, with 15 African countries, including the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Burundi, and Nigeria, reporting 3,900 confirmed cases as of September 1, 2024. Though India has reported only 30 cases since the WHO’s 2022 PHEIC declaration, the Indian government remains proactive, preparing its health system for potential cases. Mpox, previously known as Monkeypox, is a zoonotic viral disease that resembles smallpox but is less severe. It usually resolves on its own within 2-4 weeks, but severe cases, especially among children, can occur depending on factors like the patient’s health and virus exposure.
The virus is spread through prolonged contact with an infected person, direct contact with body fluids or wound materials, and contaminated items such as clothing or bedding. To prevent outbreaks, WHO emphasizes awareness of risk factors, isolation of infected individuals, hand hygiene and use of personal protective equipment (PPE). Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a high-level meeting on 18 August 2024 to review India’s Mpox arrangement. Many preventive measures have already been taken. On August 12, 2024, the National Center for Disease Control (NCDC) updated its pandemic alert on Mpox and added new updates. Health teams at international airports and ports of entry have been notified of the current situation to remain vigilant. A video conference was also held by the Director General of Health Services (DGHS) with state health officials and Integrated Disease Surveillance Program (IDSP) units, which focus on surveillance and early detection of cases. The monitoring group meeting on 16 August 2024 chaired by DGHS brought together experts from various organizations including WHO, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIMS). ). The meeting emphasized the need to strengthen surveillance and update the network of testing laboratories, currently numbering 35, to ensure early detection of Mpox. Awareness programs were also launched to educate health professionals about the signs and symptoms of the disease and the importance of regular reporting. Overall, India is monitoring Mpox with a public health strategy and low risk assessment for a major outbreak.