Mpox, previously known as monkeypox, is a zoonotic viral disease first identified in 1958, with the first human case reported in 1970. The disease has resurged globally in recent years, prompting health authorities to monitor its spread closely. India’s experience with mpox has been relatively controlled, though the country remains vigilant.

Symptoms of Mpox

Usually, mpox begins with flu-like symptoms and progresses to a rash. The common symptoms include:

  • Fever: Often the first sign of the infection.
  • Headaches and Muscle Aches: Accompany the fever and are typically severe.
  • Fatigue and Back Pain: Other early symptoms that make the patient feel exhausted.
  • Swollen Lymph Nodes: A characteristic symptom that helps differentiate mpox from similar diseases like smallpox.
  • Rash: Appears one to three days after the onset of fever, starting on the face and spreading to other body parts, including the hands, feet, and mucous membranes. The rash evolves from macules to papules, vesicles, and eventually scabs.

These symptoms last between two to four weeks, with the rash eventually crusting over and healing. While most cases are mild, complications can occur in immunocompromised individuals, children, and pregnant women. Antiviral treatments are sometimes used in severe cases.

Mpox Cases in India

Since the global resurgence of mpox in 2022, India has reported 30 cases of mpox, primarily travel-related infections. Most of these were detected between 2022 and early 2024. The latest case, confirmed in September 2024, involves a traveler returning from a country experiencing an mpox outbreak. The patient has been isolated and is receiving treatment, and officials have confirmed that the individual is in stable condition.

This new case belongs to Clade 2 of the mpox virus, the West African variant, which is generally less severe than Clade 1, responsible for most severe cases in the recent global outbreaks. The Indian Ministry of Health has emphasized that the situation remains contained, and there is no indication of community transmission or a widespread public health threat.

Government Response and What to Expect

The Indian government, having learned from the COVID-19 pandemic, is taking a cautious yet measured approach. Health authorities are actively conducting contact tracing, isolating suspected cases, and maintaining surveillance. States and Union Territories have been advised to ensure the readiness of isolation facilities and to follow stringent surveillance protocols.

Moreover, the Ministry of Health has assured the public that this case is isolated and unrelated to the strain declared a global public health emergency by the WHO. Authorities are also keeping an eye on international travelers, particularly those from regions where mpox transmission is ongoing.

Preventative measures include:

  1. Public awareness campaigns: Educating people about the symptoms and how the disease spreads.
  2. Strengthening healthcare infrastructure: Ensuring hospitals are prepared with isolation wards.
  3. Routine screening of high-risk groups: Such as international travelers and those exposed to infected individuals.

Looking Ahead

As of now, India is not experiencing a significant mpox outbreak. The risk of sustained transmission remains low, given the current public health measures in place. However, continued vigilance is necessary, particularly due to the global nature of the outbreak and the potential for future travel-related cases.

Globally, the World Health Organization (WHO) has reported over 102,000 laboratory-confirmed mpox cases as of mid-2024. While India has only reported isolated cases, the potential for the virus to spread exists, especially with global travel resuming post-pandemic.

FAQs

  1. What are the first signs of mpox infection?
    The initial symptoms of mpox resemble flu-like conditions, such as fever, headache, muscle aches, and fatigue. Swollen lymph nodes, a unique symptom of mpox, typically follow these, and a rash develops one to three days after the fever.
  2. How does mpox spread?
    Mpox can spread through close contact with an infected person, contaminated materials like clothing or bedding, and through respiratory droplets. The virus can also be transmitted from animals to humans via direct contact or by consuming undercooked meat from infected animals.
  3. Is mpox dangerous?
    While mpox is usually mild, certain populations like children, pregnant women, and immunocompromised individuals may experience more severe symptoms or complications. Most cases resolve without the need for intensive medical treatment, though antivirals may be prescribed in more severe cases.

Sources:

  1. India Today. (2024, September 9). The government of India reports that a new case of mpox has been identified, which is distinct from the type that the WHO has warned about. Retrieved from India Today
  2. Republic World. (2024, September 8). As a man returns from abroad, India reports its first suspected case of Mpox, to which the government responds. Retrieved from Republic World