Health officials in India report that a recent mpox infection detected in a traveler is due to the West African clade 2 virus, and not newer, highly transmissible subvariant that has recently caused a mpox outbreak to be classified as a public health emergency. The Ministry of Health said that this case is unique, like the previous 30 cases recorded in India since July 2022 and is not linked to the present global outbreak.
The World Health Organisation recently announced emerging mpox as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern, the latest such announcement in two years. In response, India’s government has sent out advisories to all states, and has advised the latter to be on the lookout for the new strain despite no current indications of its existence in the country.
The symptoms common with Mpox, which was previously referred to as monkeypox, include flu-like symptoms and central, round, and punched-out lesions with surrounding erythema. The disease is comparatively non-serious but is dangerous for children, pregnant women and immunocompromised individuals such as those with HIV/AIDS. This new strain which has emerged and rapidly spread through different regions globally has raised tensions because of the possible fatal consequences that may arise from its spread.
Indian strategies described are similar to those observed in other countries, which are working to prevent mpox outbreak, especially the new strain, and emphasize the need to style preparedness as a key factor of combating emerging zoonotic diseases. The situation has not ceased to develop and health experts still keep a close eye on developments as government officials warn the public while at the same time not exactly panicking people.