Amid a global surge in Mpox cases, AIIMS Delhi has issued a comprehensive protocol for managing suspected Mpox patients as part of the country's broader efforts to remain vigilant. Meanwhile, the Union Health Ministry has reassured the public that the risk of a large-scale outbreak in India remains low, despite the circulation of a more virulent strain of the virus in Africa.
AIIMS Delhi's Protocols for Mpox Management
In response to the increasing number of Mpox cases worldwide, AIIMS Delhi has established detailed guidelines for handling suspected Mpox patients:
- Screening in Triage Area: Patients presenting with fever, rash, or a history of contact with confirmed Mpox cases will undergo immediate assessment. Key symptoms include fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, swollen lymph nodes, chills, exhaustion, and distinctive skin lesions.
- Isolation/Holding Area: Suspected patients will be placed in designated isolation areas. AIIMS has allocated specific beds in the AB-7 unit to minimize contact with other patients until they can be transferred to Safdarjung Hospital for further care.
- Notification to IDSP: Any suspected Mpox case will be reported to the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) to ensure prompt coordination and response.
- Referral to Safdarjung Hospital: Safdarjung Hospital has been designated as the primary facility for managing and treating Mpox patients, with AIIMS referring all suspected cases for further evaluation.
- Dedicated Ambulance Service: A dedicated ambulance is available for transferring suspected Mpox patients to Safdarjung Hospital, ensuring safe and timely transportation.
- Infection Control and Documentation: Strict infection control measures are mandated, with staff required to use personal protective equipment (PPE) when handling suspected cases. Proper documentation of patient details and symptoms is essential for effective management and communication.
National Situation and Government's Response
The Union Health Ministry has stated that, while the more virulent Mpox strain in Africa poses a significant health threat, the risk of a large-scale outbreak in India is currently low. The strain circulating in the Democratic Republic of Congo and other African countries has a mortality rate of 3%, significantly higher than the 0.1% associated with a less virulent strain. However, no Mpox cases have been reported in India as of now.
India has already reported 30 Mpox cases since 2022, with the last case detected in March 2024. The government remains vigilant, with hospitals and doctors on alert to report any potential cases immediately. Additionally, India is prepared for large-scale testing should the need arise.
Global Context and WHO's Involvement
The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared Mpox a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC) for the second time, on August 14, 2024. This declaration follows a rapid increase in infections, particularly in Africa, where the number of Mpox cases has risen by 160% compared to 2023, spreading to six new countries in just 10 days.
Since the 2022 declaration, WHO has reported 99,176 cases and 208 deaths due to Mpox globally. The virus has shown increased virulence and infectivity, prompting renewed global attention and concern.
For more on MPOX, read: Mpox Declared Global Health Emergency by WHO as New Strain Spreads
India's Vigilance and Preparedness
Despite the global rise in Mpox cases, Indian health authorities believe that the chances of the virus spreading from Africa to India are moderate. Though the likelihood of a significant outbreak with ongoing transmission in India is thought to be low, it is not impossible to find a few imported cases in the upcoming weeks.
AIIMS Delhi, along with other state-run hospitals such as Safdarjung, Ram Manohar Lohia, and Lady Hardinge, is fully prepared to manage and treat any suspected cases. The country's network of testing laboratories, with 32 facilities equipped to diagnose Mpox, is on standby to ensure early detection and containment of the virus.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is continuously monitoring the situation, ensuring that India remains prepared for any eventualities while maintaining a strong focus on public health and safety.
This article is based on the latest updates as of August 20, 2024. For further information, stay tuned to https://vygrnews.com/ for developments.
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