India on Alert: States to Intensify Mpox Screening and Preparedness

The Centre advised states and union territories to screen and test all suspect Mpox cases, and identify isolation facilities in hospitals for both suspect and confirmed patients. Union Health Secretary Apurva Chandra emphasized staying vigilant while noting no new cases have been detected in the current outbreak.

The Centre has issued an advisory to states and union territories to intensify screening and testing for all suspected Mpox cases. Health authorities have been asked to identify dedicated isolation facilities for both suspected and confirmed cases in hospitals.

In a letter addressed to state and UT health departments, Union Health Secretary Apurva Chandra urged measures to prevent undue public panic. He clarified that no new Mpox cases have been reported in the latest outbreak, though vigilance remains crucial.

States and UTs were also instructed to review public health preparedness at healthcare facilities, ensure the availability of necessary resources, and conduct training for key stakeholders, especially within surveillance units like the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP).

(With inputs from agencies.)