Kerala is on high alert following the emergence of MPOX also known as Monkeypox cases. A 38-year-old man in Kerala, who had returned from the UAE, tested positive for mpox. This case marks the second reported incident in Malappuram, Kerala. Upon return, he showed symptoms such as fever, rash, and body aches. After hospitalisation, his samples tested positive for Mpox at the National Institute of Virology in Alappuzha.

The state's health authorities swiftly activated protocols to isolate the patient and trace his contacts. Medical teams have been monitoring those exposed, emphasising the importance of early detection. The Kerala health department is following global guidelines and WHO standards, which suggest vigilance in identifying symptoms like fever, swollen lymph nodes, and characteristic rashes.

What Is Monkeypox?

Disease Name	Mpox
Common Symptoms	Fever, Rashes, Enlarged Lymph Nodes
Virus Name	Monkeypox virus (MPXV) of Orthopoxvirus genus.
Cases In India	2
Treatable	Yes
Vaccine Available	Yes

Monkeypox or Mpox is an infectious disease which causes a painful rash, enlarged lymph nodes, fever and other symptoms. The disease is treated at early detection however if treated late can turn into severe cases.

Monkeypox virus (MPXV) is the cause of the disease. It is an enveloped double-stranded DNA virus of the Orthopoxvirus genus belonging to the Poxviridae family. Mpox have two different clades: I and II.

Since the global outbreak of the 2022 virus of clade II, the surge in cases can be seen to date. The are growing cases of outbreaks recorded in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and other parts of the world.

To date the natural reservoir of the virus is unidentified, but small mammals like monkeys and squirrels are susceptible.

History Of MPox

Contrary to its recent outbreak the virus is seen very early. Let’s have a look at the history of this disease.

In the year of 1958, the monkeypox virus was first detected in Denmark in monkeys kept for research. However, the first reported case of mpox was not in Denmark but in the Democratic Republic of the Congo in 1970 diagnosed in a 9-month-old boy.

After the eradication of smallpox in 1980, the emergence of Mpox was seen in Central, East and West Africa. Since the year 2005, thousands of mpox cases have been reported every year in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The recent data from WHO shows over 100,00 reported cases of Mpox between Jan 2022 to Aug 2024 in over 120 countries.

Is Mpox Transmissible?

Yes. Mpox is spread from person to person mainly via close contact with the carrier person. These close contacts include

• Skin-to-skin contact

• Mouth-to-Mouth contact

• Mouth To Skin contact

• Face To Face Contact such as breathing, sneezing and coughing.

What Are The Symptoms Of Monkeypox?

The sign for Monkeypox virus can start within a week of exposure however in some cases it can start within 1-21 days after exposure. The symptoms last for 2-4 weeks however, with people with weak immune symptoms the symptoms can last longer.

Some of the common symptoms of mpox or monkeypox virus are listed below:

• Rash

• Fever

• Sore Throat

• Swollen Lymph Nodes

• Back Pain

• Headache

• Muscle Aches

• Low Energy Or Weak Body

There are also cases where people can be infected without developing any symptoms. Cases of asymptomatic monkeypox virus are reported, however, the information on the same is limited and yet to be researched.

National Response And India's Mpox Preparedness

India has seen multiple cases of mpox since 2022, primarily linked to travellers from endemic regions, notably the UAE. In response, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) initiated a nationwide serosurvey in late 2022 to assess the prevalence of mpox antibodies in the population. This survey aimed to understand India’s immunity levels and guide public health strategies. The data from blood samples collected across regions are crucial for tailoring responses, especially with rising global mpox cases.

The ICMR is also increasing testing capabilities and awareness programs, ensuring that state health departments and hospitals are equipped to handle mpox cases efficiently. As Kerala grapples with its second case, the need for robust, coordinated national efforts remains critical. Kerala’s swift action may serve as a blueprint for managing infectious diseases, with other states learning from its proactive measures.

Global Context And WHO Recommendations

Mpox, primarily endemic in Central and West Africa, has seen outbreaks in non-endemic countries. The World Health Organization (WHO) has recommended that countries maintain heightened vigilance, especially regarding international travel and human-to-human transmission. Countries like India, with significant global travel and a large population, must maintain close surveillance. WHO highlights the importance of vaccination and public awareness in curbing further outbreaks.

In Kerala, public health efforts continue to focus on preventive measures, including the quarantine of suspected cases and isolation of confirmed ones. Vaccination strategies and awareness campaigns may also play a pivotal role as India strengthens its response to the ongoing threat of mpox.

Conclusion

The rise of mpox cases in Kerala underscores the importance of global awareness and national preparedness. India’s health authorities, particularly in Kerala, are actively managing the situation through isolation, contact tracing, and monitoring. The ICMR’s serosurvey and increased testing facilities are vital steps toward understanding and controlling the spread of mpox.

Stay safe and aware about such cases in India with Jaagruk Bharat.

Important Links

WHO Guidelines: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/mpox

Indian Health Misnitry: https://mohfw.gov.in/

ICMR Website: https://www.icmr.gov.in/