The threat of rising monkeypox cases in India remains very low, and there is no need to panic, according to sources from the Ministry of Health. Despite this, the WHO has classified this disease as a significant international concern and declared a public health emergency. Official sources report that the last case of monkeypox in India was recorded in Kerala in March this year. Official data indicates 30 lab-confirmed monkeypox cases in India since 2022.
The Ministry of Health may advise vigilance at entry points such as airports and seaports and issue guidelines on dealing with suspected cases. One source told a news agency, 'Currently, the risk of monkeypox cases rising in India is very low, and there is no need for alarm.'
Health Minister JP Nadda's Meeting
Health Minister JP Nadda held a meeting on Saturday with ministry officials, the NCDC, and the ICMR to review the monkeypox situation and preparedness. The Health Minister stated that precautionary measures will be taken to prevent and control the spread of the disease.
The meeting revealed that monkeypox infections typically last 2-4 weeks and are self-limiting, with most patients recovering. Prolonged close contact with an infected person can lead to transmission. It usually spreads through sexual contact, direct contact with body fluids or lesions, or contaminated clothing of an infected person.
In July 2022, WHO declared monkeypox a global concern but revoked this in May 2023. Since 2022, WHO has reported 99,176 cases and 208 deaths from 116 countries. Following the 2022 WHO announcement, India recorded a total of 30 cases, with the last case reported in March 2024. However, the Ministry of Health is closely monitoring the situation.
