India Remains Free of Mpox Cases Since March 2024

India has successfully avoided any new Mpox cases since March 2024, according to sources from the World Health Organization (WHO) and India's National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC). While the WHO has declared Mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) a public health emergency of international concern, India's risk has been deemed low. However, all necessary precautionary measures have been implemented by national and state governments to monitor, detect, and manage any potential travel-related cases.

Global Status of Mpox:

Mpox has resurfaced globally since 2022, spreading across multiple regions. WHO data up to July 31, 2024, reports 102,997 laboratory-confirmed cases from 121 countries. There have been 223 fatalities, mostly concentrated in Africa, where Mpox (Clade Ib) has been spreading more rapidly.

Public Health Response in India:

Despite no recent cases in India, the government remains vigilant. Public health measures include:

• Screening and testing of travelers.
• Isolating potential cases.
• Designating referral hospitals in Delhi and other states for testing and isolation.

Hospitals in Focus:

Designated hospitals like Safdarjung Hospital, RML, and Lady Hardinge Hospital in Delhi have been put on high alert for isolating suspected cases. So far, all suspected cases in India have tested negative, and India continues to work closely with the WHO to prevent any future outbreaks.

India’s ongoing efforts to maintain Mpox-free status demonstrate the country’s commitment to global public health safety, despite growing cases in other parts of the world.