First Mpox case detected in India

In India, the Mpox virus has been detected in a 38-year-old individual returning from Dubai. This marks the first Mpox case recorded in the country. Authorities announced that the individual in whom the virus was detected resides in the state of Kerala.

The World Health Organization (WHO) had reported that since August, when it declared an emergency due to the Mpox outbreak in Africa, the virus has begun to spread to different countries, including Sweden, Thailand, and Pakistan. The WHO announced that 30,000 suspected Mpox cases have been detected this year, the majority of which are in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Regarding the case in India, the individual in whom the virus was detected has been hospitalized, and health authorities have placed their contacts under observation. While the 29 people under observation consist of friends and family members of the infected person, it was reported that 37 passengers on the same flight have shown no symptoms.

Kerala Health Department spokesperson Manisha Verma confirmed the case in the Malappuram district and stated that the virus belongs to Clade 1. The Mpox virus manifests with symptoms such as fever, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, and lesions on the body, and can be fatal if left untreated.

Furthermore, it is stated that the new variant, called Clade 1b, is highly transmissible and is linked to the Mpox outbreak in Africa. Although more than 30 suspected Mpox cases have been seen in India over the last two years, this is the first time the situation has been confirmed. Health authorities are encouraging the public to be cautious and to follow hygiene rules.