India: first case of the new Mpox strain confirmed

One case of Mpox reported in the southern state of Kerala has been confirmed. It is the first case of the rapidly spreading clade 1 b in South Asia. The patient is a 38-year-old man from the United Arab Emirates. People with whom he has been in contact, including family, friends, and other passengers of his flight are being monitored at home but no one has yet manifested symptoms. There have been no other cases of the new Mpox strain in India so far. The Mpox virus is transmitted through close physical contact, including sexual contact, but unlike previous global pandemics such as COVID-19, there is no evidence that it spreads easily through the air. Indian federal authorities have issued a warning to all states to remain vigilant and prepare for any further cases.