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Ampox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a viral infection caused by the ampox virus (MPXV) which belongs to the same family as smallpox. The World Health Organization has declared it an infectious disease. Public health emergency of international concern, This is the second time this status has been received after the outbreaks of July 2022 and May 2023. According to WHO data, nearly 99,000 cases and 200 deaths have been reported in 116 countries since 2022. The decision was taken on high alert after increasing numbers of cases were reported from the Democratic Republic of Congo and its neighboring countries.
What are the symptoms of ampox and how is it spread?
Fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, low energy, swollen lymph nodes and chickenpox-like rash are some of the most common symptoms of ampox that can be seen 1-21 days after exposure. The symptoms can last for two to three weeks. Although it is a self-limited virus, it has been found to be fatal for children and people with weakened immune systems. ampox is usually spread through direct contact with infected skin or other lesions such as the mouth or genitals. Using contaminated items such as clothing can also lead to fatal infection.
The current spread of MPXV is caused by a new variant Clade IbOriginated from Clade I, which is spread through sexual contact. There are two types of clades for MPXV: Clade I and Clade II, with Clade I being more deadly and basically Clade I. African CongoMore than 100 cases of Clade IB have been reported in four neighbouring countries of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC): Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda and Uganda. The death toll has exceeded 500 and nearly 15,000 cases have been reported in 2024 alone.
What does this mean for India?
The first case outside the African continent was reported in Sweden, and as international travel continues, it is likely to reach other continents as well. During the 2022 outbreak, several cases of Clade II ampox were seen in Kerala in India, which is less fatal. However, people in the capital Delhi region have also contracted the disease who had no history of foreign travel. According to the WHO, various laboratories have confirmed cases and at least one death in India.
Tamil Nadu’s Director of Public Health has ordered its health officials to conduct strict screening of people returning to India from the African region, which is affected by the virus. Though no case has been reported yet, the state has ensured preventive measures to avoid any risk. The cities of Hyderabad and New Delhi have also been put on high alert, as a large number of African students are pursuing education there.
What about the vaccine for ampox?
WHO is working with countries and vaccine manufacturers to develop vaccines to ensure access to vaccines, treatments, diagnostics and other tools. There are currently two vaccines in use for ampox, recommended by the WHO Strategic Advisory Group of Experts on Immunization.
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