Monkeypox Update: Stay alert but don’t panic, urges state health department; issues guidelines for airports
Maharashtra Health Department urges public not to panic and has issued guidelines to prevent monkeypox outbreak
Monkeypox cases have increased in some countries, including Africa. The World Health Organization has declared the Monkeypox outbreak a ‘Global Health Emergency’.
The state health department has issued guidelines to alert all airports, ports and health units to set up testing laboratories, prepare health facilities for screening, and take immediate measures if a case of monkeypox is detected.
Guidelines for Health Authorities
Instructions have been issued to Regional Deputy Health Directors, Health Officers, Municipal Health Officers, District Health Officers, District Surgeons to carry out monkeypox survey, prevention and control measures in their jurisdiction.
Understanding Monkeypox
Monkeypox is a disease caused by Orthopox, a DNA type virus. The virus is found in some species of rodents. These animals are the natural source of this virus. The disease is highly contagious and can be transmitted from one person to another through direct physical contact, bodily fluids, sexual contact, or secretions from wounds.
Additionally, the virus can spread through clothing used by an infected person or large respiratory droplets during prolonged contact.
Monkeypox can also be transmitted through contact with infected animals, either by being bitten or consuming uncooked meat from these animals.
मंकीपॉक्सला घाबरू नका; सतर्क राहा
— Maha Arogya IEC Bureau (@MahaHealthIEC) August 20, 2024
सार्वजनिक आरोग्य विभागाकडून मार्गदर्शक सूचना#monkeypox #monkeypoxvirus #mpox #HealthDept pic.twitter.com/ErQ25PSH1w
Symptoms of Monkeypox
Individuals who have traveled to monkeypox-affected countries within the past three weeks and exhibit the following symptoms should be considered suspected cases:
- Sudden onset of rash
- Swollen lymph glands
- Fever, headache, and body aches
- Extreme fatigue
- Sore throat and cough
Preventive Measures
To prevent the spread of monkeypox, the following precautions are advised for healthcare professionals:
- Timely isolation of suspected monkeypox patient.
- Avoid contact with patient’s clothing or bedding.
- Keeping hands clean by regularly washing them.
- Use of PPE kits while treating monkeypox patients in health facilities.
Public Advisory
Citizens are urged to stay informed and follow government-issued guidelines. The state health department urges citizens to not believe in rumors and misinformation.
As of now there is no recorded case of monkeypox in Maharashtra and the entire country, so there is no need to panic but it is important to stay informed, stay safe, and do your part in preventing the spread of monkeypox.
