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Malappuram, Kerala – September 24, 2024: India has confirmed its first case of the new Mpox Clade 1b strain, raising concerns about the potential spread of the virus in the country. A 38-year-old man from Malappuram, Kerala, tested positive for the strain upon his return from the United Arab Emirates, officials reported on Monday.
The patient is currently in stable condition and under close medical supervision, health authorities confirmed. This marks the latest development in the global fight against Mpox, a disease that has prompted the World Health Organization (WHO) to declare it a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) twice, most recently last month due to the new strain’s emergence.
Earlier this year, a 26-year-old man from Hisar, Haryana, had tested positive for the West African Clade 2 strain in Delhi. Since the WHO’s initial declaration in 2022, India has reported a total of 30 Mpox cases across various regions, with no fatalities recorded.
State Response and Preparedness
In response to the new case, Kerala Health Minister Veena George has called for heightened vigilance, particularly among individuals who have recently traveled from abroad. She urged those showing any symptoms, such as fever, rash, or swollen lymph nodes, to seek immediate medical attention.
“We have strengthened our surveillance, especially at airports, to identify any potential cases early. State-run hospitals are fully prepared to handle cases, with isolation and treatment protocols already in place,” said Minister George.
She emphasized the need for health workers to follow strict infection control measures to prevent further spread. The state has issued a list of government hospitals equipped to treat Mpox patients and urged the public to remain calm but cautious.
Increasing Vigilance at Entry Points
In light of the rising global cases and the new Clade 1b strain, Kerala has intensified health screenings at all major entry points, particularly airports. Special attention is being given to travelers arriving from countries where the strain has been reported. Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for isolation, treatment, and contact tracing have been updated, with health officials directed to follow them rigorously.
The state is also working with central health agencies to monitor developments and ensure that diagnostic and treatment facilities remain at full capacity. Efforts to educate the public about recognizing symptoms and preventing transmission are being ramped up, including public awareness campaigns.
Global and National Context
The Mpox virus, previously known as monkeypox, has seen significant global attention since its resurgence. While the earlier Clade 2 strain predominantly affected countries in West Africa, the emergence of the Clade 1b strain has raised alarms worldwide, leading to WHO’s renewed emergency declaration.
India’s 30 reported cases since the global outbreak have predominantly been linked to international travel. The Health Ministry continues to advise vigilance for both international travelers and healthcare providers, urging strict adherence to safety protocols.
While the situation remains under control, health officials stress the importance of proactive measures to prevent the virus from gaining a foothold within the community.
For now, India, and particularly Kerala, remain in a state of heightened alert as the global community works to contain the spread of Mpox.
