Mumbai's Seven Hills Hospital Prepares Precautionary MPox Ward

Mumbai's civic body has designated a 14-bed ward at Seven Hills Hospital for MPox patients. Although no cases have been reported in Mumbai, passengers from Africa and other affected countries are being screened at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport. Authorities urge citizens not to panic.

Mumbai's civic body has reserved a 14-bed ward in Seven Hills Hospital in Andheri's Marol area for MPox patients as a precautionary measure, an official said on Thursday.

According to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation's (BMC) statement, passengers suspected of having MPox infection will be sent to BMC's Seven Hills Hospital for treatment. If necessary, more beds can be reserved. As of now, no cases have been reported in Mumbai.

Authorities urge citizens not to panic. This precautionary measure follows the directives from the Union and state governments. Screening of passengers arriving from Africa and other countries with reported MPox cases has commenced at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport. A health information desk has also been established for passengers.

The BMC had conducted a joint coordination meeting with the airport health officer (APHO) the previous day to assess the situation.

The Union Health and Family Welfare Ministry has instructed all states to adopt precautionary measures against MPox. The Maharashtra government has mandated surveys, prohibitions, and control measures to prevent the spread of this viral illness, which is caused by the monkeypox virus.

Common symptoms of MPox include skin rash, mucosal lesions, fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, low energy, and swollen lymph nodes. These symptoms can last from two to four weeks.

(With inputs from agencies.)