Kerala Health Department to Release Revised Guidelines Amid Mpox Outbreak

The Kerala health department announced revised guidelines for Mpox prevention and treatment after the southern state reported India's first confirmed case of the new strain. Health Minister Veena George emphasized the need for isolation facilities, enhanced monitoring, and expanded testing capabilities. Travelers showing symptoms must report to health authorities and seek treatment.

The Kerala health department has unveiled plans to release revised guidelines for preventing and treating Mpox. This decision follows the state reporting India's first confirmed case of the new strain on Monday. The State Level Rapid Response Team (RRT) held a meeting to evaluate the state's situation.

Following the meeting, state Health Minister Veena George emphasized the necessity of measures in case of an increase in cases. 'Isolation facilities have been established in all districts, and monitoring, including at airports, has been reinforced. Currently, testing capabilities exist in five laboratories, with provisions to extend facilities if needed,' she stated.

Although George did not specify that Kerala was the source of India's first confirmed Mpox strain case, she announced that updated guidelines would soon be issued for prevention and effective treatment. She also advised that travelers from abroad displaying symptoms should inform health authorities and seek treatment.

Earlier, official sources revealed that India's first Mpox strain case was found in a 38-year-old Malappuram district resident returning from the UAE. The World Health Organization (WHO) declared Mpox a public health emergency for the second time last month. Mpox typically presents with fever, rash, and swollen lymph nodes, with patients usually recovering in two to four weeks.

(With inputs from agencies.)