The condition of the Mpox patient being treated at Delhi’s LNJP Hospital is showing signs of improvement, as confirmed by the hospital’s medical director, Dr. Suresh Kumar. He reported to the news agency PTI that, “Mpox is a DNA virus characterized by the appearance of maculopapular lesions on the palms, soles, and skin. These lesions are typically larger and can evolve into ulcerated rashes and significant skin lesions.” Dr. Kumar reassured the public, stating, “The patient is recovering at LNJP, so there is no reason for alarm.”
According to a statement from the Union Home Ministry, this case was confirmed on Monday. The individual, a young male who recently traveled from a country experiencing Mpox transmission, is currently isolated in a special care facility and is in stable condition without any underlying health issues. This situation is being monitored closely, and the ministry has emphasized that this case is isolated, similar to the 30 other cases reported across India since July 2022. It indicated that this incident is not linked to the current public health emergency declared by the World Health Organization (WHO) regarding clade-1 of Mpox.
In fact, the WHO recently classified Mpox as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) for the second time, citing its potential lethality and expanding presence in various parts of Africa. The 26-year-old patient, who hails from Hisar in Haryana, was admitted to the LNJP Hospital on September 7.
The Home Ministry reassured the public by stating that this case aligns with prior risk assessments and is being managed according to established health protocols. Public health measures, including rigorous contact tracing and surveillance, are being applied to effectively manage the situation and prevent further spread.
The ministry further indicated, “At this moment, there is no indication of any significant threat to public health.” LNJP Hospital has been designated as the primary treatment facility for Mpox cases, with two additional hospitals on standby to accommodate any future cases.
LNJP Hospital is equipped with 20 isolation rooms specifically for Mpox patients, of which 10 are designated for confirmed cases. Additionally, Guru Teg Bahadur (GTB) Hospital and Baba Saheb Ambedkar Hospital will each house 10 rooms for confirmed cases and an additional five rooms for suspected cases.
Understanding Mpox: Symptoms and Prevention
Symptoms of Mpox
- Maculopapular lesions (raised, bumpy skin) on various parts of the body
- Ulcerated rashes that may develop into larger lesions
- Fever and flu-like symptoms accompanying the rash in some cases
Preventative Measures
- Avoid close contact with individuals who are infected or showing symptoms
- Practice good hygiene, including regular handwashing and sanitization
- Stay informed about the locations and conditions of Mpox outbreaks
