Kerala reported its second confirmed case of Mpox on Friday, prompting Health Minister Veena George to urge individuals displaying symptoms to seek immediate medical treatment. The Health Minister held a high-level meeting to assess the situation and emphasized that preventive measures are being strengthened. She announced that a contact list of people who interacted with the infected individual has been prepared, and all necessary precautions are being taken.
Need for Isolation and Medical Attention
Minister Veena George highlighted that Mpox primarily spreads after the onset of symptoms. “If symptoms appear, it is essential to be cautious to prevent the infection from spreading to others,” she advised. She urged those returning from foreign countries who show symptoms to promptly inform the health department and seek medical attention. Isolation facilities have been set up in all districts, and additional facilities are being arranged as a precaution against the possibility of more cases.
Transmission and Spread of Mpox
Unlike airborne diseases such as COVID-19 or H1N1 influenza, Mpox spreads through direct physical contact, including touching the infected person’s skin, sexual contact, kissing, or using the patient’s bedding or clothing. The minister clarified that it does not spread through the air.
A meeting of dermatology experts and the Indian Medical Association (IMA) will be convened, involving private sector physicians, pediatricians, and dermatologists. The minister also called for increased vigilance among field health workers and announced plans to organize a meeting with them to strengthen public health measures.
Veena George stressed the need to pay special attention to vulnerable groups such as the elderly, children, and pregnant women. The meeting included senior health department officials, district medical officers, program managers, and district surveillance officers to ensure a coordinated response.
The initial symptoms of Mpox include fever, severe headaches, swollen lymph nodes, back pain, muscle pain, and fatigue. Within a week of the onset of fever, rashes and red spots typically appear on the body, most commonly on the face, limbs, palms, and genital areas.
Preventive Measures for Healthcare Workers
Healthcare workers caring for suspected or confirmed patients are at higher risk of contracting Mpox and must adhere to recommended infection control measures. They are advised to clean their hands with sanitiser or soap and water after coming into contact with infected individuals or their belongings to prevent the spread of the virus.