Hyderabad is now on high alert following the World Health Organization’s (WHO) declaration of mpox, previously known as monkeypox, as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). This move comes in response to a dramatic increase in mpox cases across Africa, with 17,500 reported infections and 460 deaths in the continent this year alone.
Public Awareness Crucial
Given Hyderabad’s status as a major educational hub for students from Africa, raising public awareness about mpox is crucial. The city’s diverse population, including many international students, is particularly at risk and requires informed guidance on preventing and managing the disease.
What is Mpox?
According to a 2022 advisory from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MOHFW), mpox is a viral zoonotic disease with symptoms similar to smallpox, though generally less severe. The monkeypox virus, which causes mpox, was first identified in 1958 during an outbreak in research monkeys. The first human case was reported in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The disease is now endemic in several central and West African nations. The first outbreak outside Africa occurred in the USA in 2003.
Severity and Variants
Mpox has two primary clades in Africa:
- Clade I: This variant is known to be severe, with a mortality rate of about 10%.
- Clade II: This variant is less severe, with a fatality rate of 0.1%.
Transmission
Mpox is not airborne like COVID-19; it is transmitted through direct contact with infected individuals, their bodily fluids, or lesions. The virus can also spread through sexual contact with an infected person. Preventive measures include avoiding contact with infected individuals, practicing safe sex, and using protective measures.
Medical Advisory
Doctors in Hyderabad are advised to be vigilant for symptoms of mpox, including flu-like symptoms, swollen lymph nodes, fever, headaches, body aches, and profound weakness. Skin rashes typically appear 1-3 days after fever onset. Patients with lesions or recent travel to Africa should consult a healthcare provider immediately.
In Summary
The WHO’s PHEIC declaration highlights the urgent need for enhanced public health measures and awareness in Hyderabad. With a significant number of African students and travelers in the city, it is essential to stay informed about mpox and adhere to preventive practices to curb its spread.
