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India Reports First Suspected Mpox Case in Isolation

Why in the news?

India identified its first suspected Mpox case, a young male traveller, now isolated. Health authorities stress no major risk, ensuring robust protocols for containment and mitigation.

About the Suspected Mpox Case Identified in India:

• A young male, recently returned from a country experiencing Mpox transmission, has been put under isolation in a designated hospital.
• The patient’s samples are being tested to confirm Mpox, with contact tracing ongoing.
• The health ministry assures robust measures are in place to mitigate risks.

Mpox Overview and Global Impact:

• Mpox, previously known as Monkeypox, is a zoonotic viral illness that spreads through close contact with infected individuals or contaminated surfaces.
• The World Health Organization (WHO) declared Mpox a public health emergency due to a new, more lethal strain found in Africa.
• Over 15,600 cases and 537 deaths have been reported globally this year.

About Mpox:

Cause: Viral disease from the monkeypox virus, related to smallpox.
Symptoms: Fever, headache, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, chills, fatigue, and a rash that starts on the face and spreads.

Transmission and Precautionary Measures:

• Mpox primarily spreads through prolonged and close contact, including sexual contact or direct contact with bodily fluids and contaminated clothing.
• The infection is typically self-limiting, lasting 2-4 weeks, with most patients recovering through supportive medical care.
• India’s health ministry emphasises there is no need for undue concern as protocols are in place for such isolated cases.

Associated Article:
https://universalinstitutions.com/tag/pakistan-reports-asias-first-mpox-cases-global-alert-upsc/