In Kerala, a second case of Mpox was confirmed in a 26-year-old patient who was returning from a trip to the UAE and currently being treated at a private hospital in Ernakulam. It would be an imported case, prompting health authorities to monitor international passengers, especially those from areas affected by the virus. Tests are underway to determine whether the patient is infected with the clade Ib or clade IIb strain: the former has a high transmissibility rate and could lead to more serious health complications. The Indian government has published a set of guidelines to limit the spread of the virus, consisting of prevention, early diagnosis, and rapid isolation of infected individuals.
The WHO has declared Mpox a public health emergency of international concern, urging all countries to implement preventive measures. Since the disease spreads mainly through close contact with infected patients, but also by touching infected clothes or linen, it spreads much faster in environments where hygiene conditions are poor. The most common symptoms are fever, muscle pain, swollen lymph nodes, and fatigue, but the disease can lead to more severe symptoms if the immune system is weakened. Indian health authorities are on alert to contain the spread of the virus so that it does not become a public health threat in the country.
