India Gears Up for Mpox Preparedness, No Reported Cases So Far

New Delhi, August 19, 2024 – Principal Secretary to Prime Minister Dr. PK Mishra chaired a high-level meeting yesterday to review India’s preparedness for Mpox and related public health measures. The meeting was convened in light of the World Health Organization’s (WHO) recent declaration of Mpox as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern.

Enhanced Surveillance and Testing

Dr. Mishra directed states to enhance surveillance and take effective measures for prompt detection of cases. He also emphasized the need to gear up testing laboratories for early diagnosis, with currently 32 labs equipped for testing.

Protocols and Awareness Campaigns

Dr. Mishra stressed the importance of disseminating protocols for prevention and treatment of the disease on a large scale. He also highlighted the need for an awareness campaign amongst healthcare providers regarding the signs and symptoms of the disease and the importance of timely notification to the surveillance system.

No Reported Cases in India

As of now, there are no reported cases of Mpox in India. The present assessment suggests that the risk of a large outbreak with sustained transmission is low.

Global Scenario

Globally, since 2022, more than 99,000 cases and 208 deaths have been reported due to Mpox across 116 countries, according to WHO.

India’s Preparedness

Health authorities at the state level, including Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme units, have been sensitized through a Video Conference convened by the Director General Health Services. The meeting had over 200 participants and aimed to enhance preparedness and surveillance measures.