September 9, 2024: In a proactive move to tackle the emerging threat of Mpox, commonly known as monkeypox, the Indian government has issued a comprehensive set of recommendations aimed at curbing the spread of the disease. The directives include the screening and testing of all suspected cases, isolation of confirmed patients, and rigorous contact tracing to mitigate any potential outbreaks.

The Health Ministry has called upon states and union territories to designate hospitals equipped with isolation facilities to manage both suspected and confirmed Mpox cases effectively.

In addition to the immediate operational guidelines, the government is advocating for the dissemination of comprehensive management protocols for Mpox and a detailed surveillance strategy. This strategy mirrors the extensive measures employed during the peak of the Covid-19 pandemic, emphasizing the need for thorough tracking and contact tracing.