Monkeypox Outbreak: Health Department Issues Alert to Stay Vigilant
By Lokmat English Desk | Updated: August 21, 2024 12:28 IST2024-08-21T12:21:47+5:302024-08-21T12:28:00+5:30
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The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the monkeypox epidemic a global health emergency in response to the outbreak occurring in various regions around the world.
In response to the rapid spread and severity of monkeypox, the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has issued new guidelines and instructed all states to implement them.
In response to the situation, the state public health department has issued its own guidelines. Meanwhile, the central government has conducted a high-level meeting and provided instructions for implementing prevention measures. Additionally, the Union Health Ministry has issued guidelines for states to follow.
These measures include alerting all airports, ports, and health units, establishing testing laboratories and health facilities, and taking immediate action if a monkeypox patient is detected.
Monkeypox has not yet been reported in the country or the state. Migrants returning from countries affected by the disease are advised to contact the health system immediately if they develop symptoms. The local health system will conduct preventive surveys and control measures in the workplace.
Monkeypox is caused by the orthopoxvirus, a DNA virus. This virus is naturally found in certain species of squirrels and mice, which serve as its natural reservoirs. The disease is contagious from 1 to 2 days before the rash appears until the skin blisters have fully healed.
Monkeypox is primarily transmitted between humans through direct physical contact, including body fluids, sexual contact, or discharge from wounds. It can also spread via contact with contaminated clothing or through prolonged exposure to respiratory droplets from an infected person.
Monkeypox can also be transmitted from animals to humans. The disease may spread through bites from an infected animal or by consuming undercooked meat from an infected animal.
