PM Modi Reviews Mpox Preparedness as WHO Issues Global Alert

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is actively overseeing the country's response to the Mpox situation. In line with his directives, Dr. P.K. Mishra, Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister, led a high-level meeting to assess India's preparedness for Mpox and the public health measures in place.

On August 14, 2024, the World Health Organization (WHO) reiterated its declaration of Mpox as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC), given its widespread presence across various parts of Africa. According to WHO data, since 2022, there have been 99,176 cases and 208 deaths reported globally from 116 countries. The Democratic Republic of Congo, in particular, has seen a significant surge in cases, with over 15,600 reported this year alone, leading to 537 deaths. In India, since WHO's 2022 declaration, there have been 30 reported cases of Mpox, with the last case detected in March 2024.

During the high-level meeting, it was noted that India currently has no active Mpox cases, and the risk of a large outbreak is considered low. Dr. Mishra was briefed that Mpox infections typically last between 2-4 weeks and are generally self-limiting, with most patients recovering with supportive medical care. Transmission occurs mainly through prolonged close contact, particularly via the sexual route, direct contact with body fluids, or contaminated materials like clothing or linens.

In the past week, the Ministry of Health has taken several steps to strengthen India's preparedness. On August 12, 2024, the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) convened a meeting of experts to assess the country's risk. The NCDC is also updating its Communicable Disease (CD) Alert on Mpox to reflect recent developments. Additionally, health teams at international airports and other points of entry have been sensitized to the situation.

On the morning of the meeting, the Director General of Health Services (DGHS) held a video conference with over 200 participants, including state-level health authorities and units of the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP). They were briefed on the latest information and guidelines related to Mpox.

Dr. Mishra directed that surveillance efforts be intensified and that the network of testing laboratories, currently comprising 32 labs, be prepared for early diagnosis. He also emphasized the importance of widespread dissemination of prevention and treatment protocols, along with an awareness campaign targeting healthcare providers to ensure timely notification of any cases.

The meeting was attended by key officials, including Dr. V.K. Paul from NITI Aayog, Apurva Chandra, Secretary of Health & Family Welfare, and other senior officials from various ministries.