What is Mpox? Fever to headache: Know symptoms of monkeypox, what to do if you get infection and advisory

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has declared mpox a public emergency of international concern. This comes amid a rapid surge in spread of the disease in Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, and its detection in neighbouring countries as well.

The Director General of the WHO, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, said, that a public health emergency of international concern is the highest level of alarm under international health law.

"Today, the Emergency Committee met and advised me that, in its view, the situation constitutes a public health emergency of international concern. I have accepted that advice. A public health emergency of international concern is the highest level of alarm under international health law," Tedros said in a media briefing on the outcome of the mpox Emergency Committee meeting.

What is Mpox?

As per WHO, Mpox is a viral illness caused by the monkeypox virus. Mpox can be transmitted to humans through physical contact with someone who is infectious, with contaminated materials, or with infected animals.

What are the key symptoms?

Common symptoms of mpox are a skin rash or mucosal lesions which can last 2–4 weeks accompanied by fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, low energy, and swollen lymph nodes.

Health Ministry issues advisor for Mpox

The Indian Health Ministry has asked all airports as well as authorities at land ports on borders with Bangladesh and Pakistan to remain alert about incoming international passengers reporting Mpox symptoms, news agecny PTI reported citing official sources.

The ministry has designated three Centre-run hospitals in the national capital—Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, Safdarjung Hospital, and Lady Hardinge Hospital—as nodal centers for the isolation, management, and treatment of Mpox patients.

According to sources, all state governments have been instructed to identify similar designated hospitals within their jurisdictions. Currently, India has not reported any cases of Mpox.

How to determine whether you are infected:

If you get rashes or lesions on your skin, don't immediately assume that you are infected with monkeypox. Get tested first for the virus in a certified lab.

Currently, there are 15 VRDLs, equipped to test for monkeypox, including the National Institute of Virology (NIV) in Pune. Meanwhile, the Centre is working on developing test kit for monkeypox.

Here is what to do if you are infected with monkeypox:

Isolate: If you are infected with the virus, the symptoms will start showing within 2 weeks. They are said to be infectious till the symptoms go away, and rashes and lesions are healed. It is extremely essential to isolate till then.

Inform: Inform and advise everyone to get tested who has come in close contact with you in the last 2 weeks. Here is what is defined as close contact.

- Direct contact with the monkeypox rash, scabs, or body fluids on your body.

- Touching objects, fabrics (clothing, bedding, or towels), and surfaces that have been used by you.

- Contact with the respiratory secretions you may have released.

- Anyone you have engaged in any sexual activity with you including hugging, kissing or having sexual intercourse.

Few rules to maintain when infected:

- Avoid contact with people, especially those who fall under the high risk group.

- Limit your contact with animals too.

- Avoid sharing items like towels, bedding, bedsheets, brushes etc., with others or allowing them to use your belongings.