As the global health community grapples with the escalating threat of Monkeypox (Mpox), India is intensifying its preparedness efforts to prevent and manage any potential outbreak of the virus.

Since January 2023, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), the endemic country for Clade I Mpox, has recorded over 27,000 suspected cases and over 1,300 deaths. This outbreak is unprecedented in its scale, surpassing previous records, and has spread to neighboring countries including Burundi, the Central African Republic, Rwanda, and Uganda, with a travel-associated case reported in Kenya.

Although India has not yet reported any cases of Monkeypox, the government is proactively enhancing its response strategy. Measures include:

• Raising Awareness: Public health campaigns are being launched to educate the public about Monkeypox symptoms, which include skin rash, fever, headache, and swollen lymph nodes.
• Strengthening Surveillance: Increased surveillance is being implemented to monitor and detect any potential cases early.
• Setting Up Isolation Wards: Specialized isolation wards are being established in hospitals to handle potential cases of Monkeypox.
• Expanding Diagnostic Testing: The country is enhancing its diagnostic capabilities to quickly identify and confirm cases of Mpox.

Experts are recommending the use of the JYNNEOS vaccine to protect close contacts of confirmed cases and Tecovirimat as the first-line treatment for Mpox, in addition to supportive care.

The global outbreak, which has spread beyond Africa to Europe, the Americas, and other regions, underscores the pandemic potential of Monkeypox. The virus, which was first identified in monkeys in Denmark in 1958, is known to spread from animals to humans and has shown a significant resurgence since 2022, particularly affecting men who have sex with men.

Health officials emphasize the importance of distinguishing Monkeypox from other similar infections such as chickenpox and measles. Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment and containment.

India’s proactive measures reflect a commitment to safeguarding public health amid this global health crisis. The country continues to monitor the situation closely and is prepared to respond swiftly should Monkeypox cases emerge.