As global cases of Mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) continue to rise, the Indian government has heightened its vigilance, particularly at airports, ports, and land borders with Bangladesh and Pakistan. The Centre has instructed authorities to monitor international passengers for symptoms of Mpox and to prepare healthcare facilities for potential cases. Although no new cases have been reported in India recently, the government remains cautious and proactive in its approach to preventing an outbreak.

Key Updates

1. Current Status in India:
   • As of now, India has not reported any new Mpox cases in 2024. However, the country had previously recorded 30 confirmed cases since 2022, with the last case detected in March 2024.
   • The Ministry of Health has emphasized that while the risk of a large outbreak with sustained transmission is currently low, the situation remains under close observation.
2. Government Response:
   • The Centre has designated three state-run hospitals in Delhi—Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, Safdarjung Hospital, and Lady Hardinge Hospital—as nodal centers for the quarantine, management, and treatment of Mpox patients.
   • A high-level meeting chaired by PK Mishra, Principal Secretary to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, was held on August 18, 2024, to review the country’s preparedness. The meeting underscored the need for heightened surveillance and prompt detection of potential cases.
3. Surveillance and Laboratory Preparedness:
   • Airports and land ports, especially those on the borders with Pakistan and Bangladesh, have been instructed to be on high alert. All incoming passengers displaying symptoms of Mpox are to be isolated and tested.
   • India has 32 laboratories equipped to test for Mpox, ensuring early diagnosis and containment. The Health Ministry has ordered these laboratories to be ready to handle any surge in testing needs.
4. Global Context:
   • The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared Mpox a Public Health Emergency of International Concern, highlighting its prevalence across several African countries.
   • According to WHO data, as of June 30, 2024, there have been 99,176 reported cases and 208 deaths globally since 2022. The most affected countries include the United States, Brazil, Spain, France, Colombia, Mexico, the United Kingdom, Peru, Germany, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
   • This year alone, Mpox has seen significant outbreaks in 13 African nations, including the DRC, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, and the Central African Republic.
5. Virus Strain and Risk Assessment:
   • The current strain of the Mpox virus is reported to be more infectious and virulent than previous strains. Despite this, officials have assessed that the risk of a large-scale outbreak in India remains low due to the country’s preparedness and the prompt measures being implemented.
   • The Ministry of Health is also actively educating healthcare providers on Mpox prevention, signs, symptoms, and the importance of timely notification to surveillance systems.

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India has taken a vigilant and proactive stance in response to the global rise in Mpox cases. Although no new cases have been detected recently, the government has implemented strict surveillance measures and designated healthcare facilities to manage potential cases effectively. With global cases on the rise, particularly in Africa, India continues to monitor the situation closely, ensuring that the country remains prepared for any developments. The risk of a major outbreak remains low, but ongoing vigilance is crucial to prevent any potential spread of the virus within the country.

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