After weeks of monitoring, the Health Ministry has confirmed that the mpox case reported in Kerala last week is from the fast-spreading clade 1b variety, marking South Asia's first recorded case from the new strain. The 38-year-old patient had recently travelled from the United Arab Emirates and is currently being treated in a government hospital. Despite concerns, authorities have reassured that no mpox symptoms have been observed in 29 close contacts and 37 passengers on the patient's flight. The origins and potential impact of this new strain of the virus, which was first identified in the Democratic Republic of Congo, continue to be closely monitored by organizations like the WHO.
India Confirms First Case of Mpox Clade 1b Variant
Background:
Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a viral disease caused by the mpox virus. The virus is primarily transmitted through close contact with an infected person's respiratory droplets, skin lesions, or bodily fluids.
Recent Developments:
India has confirmed its first case of the fast-spreading Clade 1b variant of mpox. The case was identified in a 38-year-old man who had recently traveled from the United Arab Emirates. The patient is currently being treated in isolation at a government hospital.
Significance:
The Clade 1b variant is known to be more transmissible than previous strains of mpox. It is also associated with more severe symptoms, including fever, chills, muscle aches, and swollen lymph nodes.
Health authorities in India are conducting contact tracing and monitoring the patient's close contacts. So far, no other cases of mpox have been reported.
Top 5 FAQs:
1. What are the symptoms of mpox?
Symptoms can include fever, chills, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, and a characteristic rash of red bumps that can turn into pus-filled blisters.
2. How is mpox transmitted?
Mpox is spread through close contact with an infected person's respiratory droplets, skin lesions, or bodily fluids. It can also be transmitted through contact with contaminated objects.
3. Is there a cure for mpox?
There is currently no specific cure for mpox. Treatment is supportive and focuses on relieving symptoms and preventing complications.
4. Is there a vaccine for mpox?
There is a vaccine available for mpox. It is recommended for high-risk individuals, such as healthcare workers and those who have had close contact with someone who is infected.
5. What are the long-term effects of mpox?
Most people recover fully from mpox within a few weeks. However, some people may experience long-term complications, such as scarring, joint pain, and neurological problems.
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