No Monkeypox Cases in India So Far, Health Minister Reviews Preparedness

New Delhi- The Union Health Ministry has confirmed that no cases of monkeypox have been reported in the country to date. In response to the World Health Organisation's declaration of monkeypox as a public health emergency of international concern, Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda held a review meeting in New Delhi to assess the situation and the country's readiness.

During the meeting, several precautionary measures were decided upon to prevent and control the potential spread of monkeypox. These measures include sensitizing health units at all airports, seaports, and border crossings, preparing testing laboratories, and ensuring health facilities are equipped to detect, isolate, and manage any potential cases.

The Ministry also reported that a Joint Monitoring Group, chaired by the Director General of Health Services and comprising experts from various relevant fields, convened yesterday to evaluate the situation. The Health Ministry has assessed the risk of a large-scale outbreak with sustained transmission as low at present but is continuing to monitor the situation closely.

It was noted in the meeting that monkeypox infections are typically self-limiting, lasting between 2 to 4 weeks, with most patients recovering with supportive care. The Ministry further clarified that transmission generally requires prolonged close contact with an infected individual and occurs primarily through sexual contact, direct contact with body fluids, or contaminated clothing of the infected person.