Centre Urges Enhanced Monitoring and Preparedness for Mpox

The Centre has advised states and union territories to screen and test individuals suspected of having mpox, establish isolation facilities, and ensure preparedness at the health facility level. The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare is closely monitoring the situation, despite no new cases being reported in the current outbreak.

The Centre on Monday issued an advisory to states and union territories, urging them to screen and test all suspect mpox cases and establish isolation facilities in hospitals for both suspect and confirmed patients.

In a letter, Union Health Secretary Apurva Chandra advised against creating undue panic among the public, noting that no new cases have been reported in the current outbreak and that all suspected samples have tested negative. He emphasized the importance of vigilance as the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare continues to monitor the evolving situation.

Chandra called on states and UTs to review public health preparedness, especially at the health facility level, to identify isolation areas in hospitals, and to ensure the availability of necessary logistics and trained personnel. He also highlighted the need to orient key stakeholders and surveillance units under the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) regarding surveillance activities and case definitions.

(With inputs from agencies.)