Mpox Outbreak India: Understanding the Spread, Impact, and Preventive Measures 2024 updates
Mpox Outbreak India: The Mpox outbreak is escalating globally, with over 99,000 cases and 200 deaths reported since 2022. The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared it a Public Health Emergency of International Concern for the second time. Mpox, formerly known as Monkeypox, is a viral infection caused by the Mpox virus (MPXV), closely related to smallpox. With cases rising, India is on high alert, especially in regions with high international travel, to prevent a major outbreak. Here’s what you need to know about the virus, its symptoms, and how India is responding.
What Is Mpox and How Does It Spread?
Mpox symptoms include fever, headaches, muscle aches, back pain, low energy, swollen lymph nodes, and pox-like rashes, appearing 1-21 days after exposure. While usually self-limiting, the virus can be fatal for children and immunocompromised individuals. It spreads through:
- Respiratory droplets during close contact
- Direct contact with fluids from infected lesions or contaminated objects
- Sexual transmission from infected lesions, especially with the new variant clade Ib
The virus has two clades, I and II, with clade I being more dangerous and native to the Congo region.
Global Impact and Current Situation
More than 100 cases of clade Ib have been reported in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and neighboring countries like Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda. In 2024 alone, the death toll has exceeded 500, with about 15,000 new cases reported.
Preventative Measures
To mitigate the spread of Mpox, the following precautions are essential:
- Good hand hygiene: Regular handwashing with soap and water or using alcohol-based sanitizers
- Protective measures: Use of masks and protective gear by healthcare workers
- Isolation: Isolating infected individuals and properly disposing of biomedical waste
Implications for India
During the 2022 outbreak, India saw a few cases of clade II Mpox, which is less severe. However, with increased global travel, India is on high alert. Tamil Nadu, Hyderabad, and New Delhi are screening travelers from affected regions to prevent new cases.
Vaccination and Treatment
The WHO has approved two vaccines for Mpox: Jynneos (Imvamune or Imvanex) and ACAM2000, both offering 85% protection against the virus. These vaccines are crucial in controlling the spread, particularly in high-risk areas.
India’s proactive measures, including strict screenings and vaccination efforts, are key to managing the potential impact of the Mpox outbreak and ensuring public safety.
