WHO Declares Mpox a Global Emergency! What Is India's Status?
WHO declares Mpox a global public health emergency due to its increasing spread and serious threat, urging global vigilance and prevention measures.
Mpox, previously known as Monkeypox, is a rare viral disease that can affect both humans and animals. Similar to smallpox, Mpox is mostly found in Africa but has the potential to spread globally. On 14th August 2024, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared Mpox a “Global Public Health Emergency” due to its increasing prevalence and spread across many African countries.
Why is Mpox a Serious Threat?
Recent reports indicate that the latest variant of the Mpox virus is more dangerous and spreads more easily. WHO warned that Mpox could spread further across African countries and possibly beyond the continent.
Since 2022, WHO has reported 99,176 Mpox cases and 208 deaths in 116 countries. While it mostly affects children under 15, adults can also be infected.
Symptoms of Mpox
Mpox symptoms include:
- Fever
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Chills
- Headache
- Muscle aches
- Fatigue
- Pus-filled blisters or sores on the mouth, face, hands, feet, and genital areas
In extreme cases, symptoms can include:
- Difficulty breathing
- Chest pain
- Stiff neck
- Confusion
- Difficulty speaking or moving
- Loss of consciousness
- Seizures
Treatment and Prevention
There is no specific treatment for Mpox, but symptoms usually improve without treatment within 2-4 weeks. Doctors may prescribe antiviral medication for smallpox to treat Mpox and give antibiotics to prevent bacterial infections.
Mpox vaccines exist but are not mandatory in most countries. Vaccines are recommended for people who have been exposed to Mpox or are at high risk of exposure.
To prevent Mpox, you should:
- Avoid contact with sick or dead animals
- Avoid contact with contaminated bedding and other materials
- Cook animal-based foods thoroughly
- Wash hands frequently with soap and water
- Avoid contact with people showing symptoms of Mpox
- Practice safe sex and use condoms
- Wear a face mask around others
- Clean and disinfect surfaces regularly
- Use PPE kit - personal protective equipment (PPE) when caring for infected individuals
Recent Developments and India’s Preparedness
On 15th August 2024, Sweden, Pakistan, and Bangladesh each reported one case of Mpox, just a day after WHO’s declaration. While India has not reported any new cases recently, 30 cases have been reported since 2022, with the last one in March 2024.
Union Minister of Health & Family Welfare, JP Nadda, has instructed all airports and land ports in India to stay vigilant for passengers showing Mpox symptoms. The Indian government has designated three hospitals in Delhi for the isolation and treatment of Mpox patients and has equipped 32 laboratories to test for the virus.
If you or your loved ones show any symptoms of Mpox, it is important to practice social distancing and contact a doctor immediately.
