Fri Sep 27 17:19:43 UTC 2024: ## India Steps Up Measures to Contain Mpox Spread Following Second Case
**New Delhi, India** – In response to the confirmation of a second mpox case in India, the Union Health Ministry has issued new advisories to states and union territories, urging them to bolster their response efforts and prevent further spread of the virus. The latest case, involving a 26-year-old man who recently returned from the UAE, has heightened concerns as it is the second confirmed case of the more virulent and transmissible Clade 1B strain in the country.
The Health Ministry, in its advisory, has emphasized the need for increased public awareness about mpox, including its transmission methods and preventive measures. Immediate isolation of suspected cases and strict infection prevention and control measures are crucial, the ministry stated.
To accommodate the growing need for isolation facilities, the advisory recommends that hospitals establish dedicated isolation wards for suspected and confirmed mpox cases, equipped with trained staff and proper logistics.
The ministry has also highlighted the importance of prompt reporting of suspected cases, emphasizing that even mild symptoms should be taken seriously and tested to prevent further spread. The Centre has instructed states to utilize ICMR-approved laboratories and PCR kits for early detection and containment of the virus, while also advising them to send suspected samples for testing and confirmed cases for genome sequencing.
The advisories further stressed the need for transparent communication with the public to alleviate panic and promote understanding of preventive measures. The Centre has also advised against overcrowding healthcare facilities by admitting only symptomatic patients or those requiring isolation.
“By implementing these measures, we can safeguard public health and reduce the impact of the mpox outbreak,” the Health Ministry stated. “The Ministry will continue to monitor the situation closely.”
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