Monkeypox in India: Key do’s and don’ts from Health Ministry to curb Mpox spread

The Indian government has issued an advisory to all States and Union Territories (UTs) regarding the prevention and control of Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox. Health Secretary Apurva Chandra emphasised the necessity of implementing key public health measures to minimise the spread of the disease across the nation.

Monkeypox awareness is key

The advisory stressed the importance of raising public awareness about Mpox, including its transmission methods and symptoms. It encouraged states and UTs to engage communities actively to ensure they understand the significance of timely reporting and preventive measures. "All states/UTs are requested to undertake appropriate activities to make communities aware about the disease," states the advisory.

Monkeypox dos: Key measures for prevention

To effectively manage and prevent the spread of Mpox, the advisory outlined essential dos:

• Increase Public Awareness: States and UTs should promote community awareness regarding Mpox, its symptoms, and transmission methods, stressing the need for timely reporting.
• Isolate Suspected Cases: Immediate isolation of any suspected Mpox case is crucial, along with stringent infection control measures.
• Set Up Isolation Facilities: Hospitals must be equipped with adequate isolation facilities for suspected and confirmed cases, ensuring proper logistics and trained staff.
• Symptomatic Treatment: Follow current treatment guidelines, emphasising symptomatic management for those affected.
• Send Samples for Testing: Ensure that samples from suspected cases are sent to designated laboratories for testing. Positive cases should also be forwarded to ICMR-NIV for genome sequencing to identify the Mpox clade.
• Strengthen Diagnostic Capabilities: Utilise ICMR-approved laboratories and PCR kits for early detection and containment of the virus.
• Monitor Public Health Infrastructure: Senior health officials are encouraged to regularly assess public health preparedness at both state and district levels.

Monkeypox don’ts: What to avoid

The advisory also provided crucial don’ts to mitigate the risk of Mpox transmission:

• Avoid Panic: Effective public communication is necessary to prevent mass panic while clarifying preventive measures.
• Do Not Delay Reporting: Prompt reporting of suspected cases is essential to prevent further spread; delays could exacerbate the situation.
• Avoid Unnecessary Crowding in Facilities: Only admit symptomatic cases or those requiring isolation to prevent overburdening healthcare facilities.
• Do Not Overlook Mild Cases: All suspected cases, even mild ones, should be tested and isolated if necessary to minimise unnoticed transmission.

Monkeypox testing and preparedness

The health ministry has reassured the public that robust testing capabilities are in place, with 36 ICMR-supported laboratories nationwide and approved PCR kits available for early diagnosis. To ensure preparedness, the advisory outlines necessary actions, such as identifying isolation facilities in hospitals for suspected and confirmed Mpox cases, ensuring the availability of logistics, and training healthcare workers.

Inputs from TOI