India Reports First Mpox Clade 1b Case

Kerala has reported multiple Mpox (monkeypox) cases, including the nation's first Clade 1b strain, with the latest being a 29-year-old who returned from the UAE. State Health Minister Veena George has emphasized the importance of isolation and preventive measures, urging individuals from abroad to seek medical attention if symptomatic. Isolation facilities have been established across all districts, and revised guidelines for prevention and treatment are being prepared. Concurrently, Africa faces a severe Mpox outbreak, particularly in the Democratic Republic of Congo, with over 32,000 suspected cases and significant challenges in vaccine distribution. Global efforts, including financial pledges and vaccine donations, are underway to contain the outbreak in Africa. The WHO has declared Mpox a Public Health Emergency of International Concern, and India's health ministry has issued advisories to enhance public health preparedness and manage the disease effectively.