The recent spread of Mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) from Central Africa to various parts of the world has raised concerns in India, especially following positive cases reported in neighboring Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (POK). In response, the Indian government has issued an alert and designated three hospitals in Delhi—Lady Hardinge Medical College, Ram Manohar Lohia (RML) Hospital, and Safdarjung Hospital—as nodal centers for treating and monitoring Mpox patients. Isolation wards have been established in these hospitals to manage potential cases.
AIIMS New Delhi has also prepared for potential Mpox cases, with Dr. Reema Dada, Professor and Media Cell In-Charge, confirming the reservation of five beds specifically for suspected cases. Although no cases have been reported in India so far, precautions are being taken to handle any emerging situation.
Talking to a newspaper, Dr. Jugal Kishore, Director Professor and Head of Community Medicine at Vardhman Mahavir Medical College & Safdarjung Hospital, highlighted that Mpox symptoms are similar to those of chickenpox or smallpox, including sores, blisters, rashes, or pimples that may contain yellow pus, as well as itching, vomiting, fever, headache, muscle stiffness, and lethargy. He emphasized the need for precautionary measures, such as avoiding crowded places, washing hands frequently, and seeking medical advice if symptoms are noticed.
The central government has also enhanced laboratory networks, designating 32 laboratories across the country for Mpox testing. Additionally, officials at land ports along the borders with Bangladesh and Pakistan, as well as at all airports, have been instructed to stay vigilant regarding international passengers exhibiting symptoms of Mpox.
Globally, the World Health Organization (WHO) reports that since 2022, there have been 99,176 cases of Mpox across 116 countries, with 208 deaths. The situation remains dynamic, and the Indian government continues to monitor developments closely to prevent the spread of the virus within the country, said an official from the Ministry.
Here’s a structured protocol for screening, isolation, and referral of suspected Mpox patients:
Screening in Triage Area
• Arrival Assessment:
Immediately flag patients with fever, rash, or a history of contact with confirmed Mpox cases for assessment.
Identify Key Symptoms:
Fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain
Swollen lymph nodes, chills, exhaustion
Characteristic skin lesions (maculopapular rash progressing to vesicles and pustules)
Isolation/Holding Area
• Immediate Isolation:
Place suspected patients in a designated isolation area to prevent contact with other patients and staff.
Designated Beds:
AB-7 Beds Nos. 33, 34, 35, 36, and 37 are reserved for isolating Mpox patients.
These beds will be allotted to Mpox patients based on the recommendation of the Emergency CMO.
The Medicine department will manage treatment until the patient is transferred to Safdarjung Hospital for definitive care.
Temporary Holding:
AB-7 serves as a temporary holding area until the patient is transferred.
Notification to IDSP
Inform IDSP:
Contact the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) at 8745011784 upon identifying a suspected case.
Provide patient details, brief history, clinical findings, and contact information.
Referral to Safdarjung Hospital
Designated Treatment Center:
Safdarjung Hospital is designated for managing Mpox patients.
Refer suspected Mpox patients to Safdarjung Hospital for further evaluation and treatment.
Ambulance Coordination
Dedicated Ambulance:
A specific ambulance is assigned for shifting patients to Safdarjung Hospital.
Emergency staff must inform the ambulance coordinator at 8929683898 to arrange transport.
Patient Handling and Isolation
Infection Control:
Handle all patients with strict infection control measures.
Staff must use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) when managing suspected cases.
Documentation and Communication
Record Keeping:
Maintain thorough documentation of the patient’s details, symptoms, and referral process.
Ensure clear communication between involved departments and authorities.
