India has reported its first case of Mpox (formerly known as Monkeypox) recently. It is caused by the mutated strain Clade 1B in Keralas Malappuram district. The case was detected following the World Health Organization (WHO) declaring Mpox as a disease of international concern.

According to the Health Ministry, the strain has been found in a patient from Kerala. He had recently returned from Dubai and tested positive for this highly transmissible variant.

The Ministry said that the patient is stable and contact tracing to identify any potential spread of the disease is being carried out. Currently, there is no indication of any widespread risk to the public at this time.

Unlike influenza or Covid-19, Mpox is not airborne. It mostly spreads through unprotected close physical contact. Sexual transmission is also an important mode of spread. In addition, it can spread from contact with infected material from blisters and scabs of a patient, the ministry further reported.

What is Mpox?

According to the WHOs report, Mpox or Monkeypox virus is a condition similar to smallpox, although it is less severe. Its a condition that is transmitted from animals to humans and can also spread from humans to humans. It can be transmitted through bodily fluids, lesions on the skin, or internal mucosal surfaces such as mouth or throat, respiratory droplets, and contaminated objects.

Some common symptoms of Mpox are fever, skin rashes, and swollen lymph nodes.

India is no new to Mpox

However, Mpox is not new to India, from 2022 to 2024, the country reported over 30 cases of the disease. It has been reported from various parts of the country. Most people affected by the condition have a history of travel to African countries, where the disease is widespread.

The Health Ministry of India claims that these bodily fluids from blisters and scabs of a patient can contaminate materials such as bedding.

Therefore, maintaining hygiene is necessary. Another model of transmission of the disease could be healthcare workers, who are not using the necessary protection and measures.

Clade 1B and IIB Strain

The earlier cases reported were caused by the Clade II strain of the virus. This is the First case in Kerala reported recently which has been caused by Clade 1B strain. This strain is known to be highly transmissible and has a higher fatality rate as compared to Clade II.

Previous Cases Reported

Prior to this, a case of Mpox was reported, caused by Clade IIB strain of the virus in a 26-year-old man from Haryanas Hisar district. The man was held isolated at the regional Hospital and was discharged within a few days. The Health Ministry said Public Health measures, including contact tracing and monitoring, are actively in place to ensure the situation remains stable.

Prevention

Monkeypox is a serious health concern that can have a major impact on the human body. However, by following these measures, one can not only combat the condition but can also attain a better lifestyle

Here are various measures to prevent Mpox

• Get vaccinated
• Avoid Close Contact
• Good Hygiene
• Be Cautious in social settings
• Treat when feeling mild symptoms