On August 21, the Kerala Health Department issued a statewide alert in response to mpox (formerly monkeypox) outbreaks reported in multiple countries. The State has heightened its vigilance, deploying surveillance teams at all airports to screen passengers arriving from affected regions. This action follows the World Health OrganiSation (WHO) declaring mpox a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) due to its widespread presence across various parts of Africa.
State Health Minister Veena George has announced that all passengers arriving from countries reporting mpox must undergo screening at airports. If symptoms are detected, individuals will be isolated and treated according to the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) established by the state government in 2022. “All Government and private hospitals are required to strictly adhere to the SOP for anyone presenting symptoms of mpox,” George stated.
Mpox infections are typically self-limiting, lasting from two to four weeks, with most patients recovering through supportive medical care. The disease is transmitted through prolonged and close contact with an infected person. The health department has assured that all necessary precautions are in place to prevent the spread of mpox within the State.
The public has been advised to stay vigilant and report any suspicious symptoms to the health department without delay. With the threat of mpox being significant, Kerala is taking comprehensive measures to ensure state safety, with the health department working diligently. On Sunday, Prime Minister’s Principal Secretary P K Mishra chaired a high-level meeting to assess the State’s preparedness for mpox treatment and to enhance surveillance for prompt infection detection.
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