Mpox is not the new COVID, according to a WHO official. Here's what you need to know about different strains of monkey pox.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has recently declared Mpox, previously known as monkeypox, a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC). This decision follows a notable increase in cases, especially across Africa. However, Indian health authorities report that the risk of a significant Mpox outbreak within the country remains very low.

Current Mpox Situation in India
The last reported case of Mpox in India was in March 2024, in Kerala. Since the beginning of the outbreak in 2022, India has recorded a total of 30 confirmed Mpox cases. According to PTI, an official source stated, "At the moment, the risk of a surge in monkeypox infection is very low in India and there is no need to panic."

Government Actions and Measures
In response to the WHO's declaration and the global rise in Mpox cases, India is implementing precautionary measures. The health ministry may soon issue advisories for increased vigilance at international entry points such as airports and seaports. These advisories will instruct these locations to manage suspected Mpox cases according to existing protocols, which include isolation and treatment guidelines.
Union Health Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda is set to meet with officials from the Ministry of Health, the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), and the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) on Saturday to review the situation and reinforce necessary precautions. Additionally, the Ministry of Health has designated three Centre-run hospitals in Delhi—Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, Safdarjung Hospital, and Lady Hardinge Medical College—as key facilities for managing Mpox cases.

Global Context and Surveillance
The recent global surge in Mpox cases has prompted several countries, particularly in Europe, to raise their alert levels. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has upgraded its risk assessment to "moderate" due to a new strain detected in Sweden. Despite these developments, the WHO has advised against imposing travel restrictions.
In response to the global situation, the Indian Health Ministry has directed all airports and border authorities to remain alert for incoming international passengers showing Mpox symptoms. The ministry has also emphasized the need for effective surveillance and has geared up a network of 32 testing laboratories across the country for early diagnosis.

Current Assessment
As of now, no new cases of Mpox have been reported in India since March 2024. Officials maintain that the risk of a large-scale outbreak with sustained transmission remains low. The Health Ministry continues to focus on enhancing surveillance and ensuring that healthcare providers are aware of the symptoms and protocols related to Mpox.
According to WHO, there have been 99,176 Mpox cases and 208 deaths reported globally from 116 countries since 2022. The number of cases and deaths has increased significantly this year, with over 15,600 cases and 537 deaths reported so far in 2024.