Dr. P.K. Mishra, Principal Secretary to Prime Minister, chaired a meeting to assess the country's readiness for combating the contagious disease Mpox. The World Health Organization has declared Mpox as a global Public Health Emergency of International Concern, and the meeting discussed preventive measures and awareness campaigns to be taken up. Although there have been 30 reported cases in India since the WHO declaration in 2022, the current risk of a large outbreak is low.
Mpox: Public Health Emergency of International Concern in India
Background
Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a viral infection caused by the Mpox virus. It is primarily transmitted through close contact with an infected person or animal, or with contaminated materials. Symptoms can range from fever, headache, and muscle aches to rash and swollen lymph nodes.
In May 2022, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared Mpox a global Public Health Emergency of International Concern. This declaration signifies that the spread of the disease has the potential to become a significant threat to global public health.
India's Response
As of the time of writing, India has reported 30 cases of Mpox since the WHO's declaration in 2022. The current risk of a large outbreak in the country is considered low.
To prepare for any potential outbreak, the Indian government has taken several measures, including:
Top 5 FAQs
1. What are the symptoms of Mpox?
A: Symptoms can include fever, headache, muscle aches, chills, fatigue, rash, and swollen lymph nodes.
2. How is Mpox transmitted?
A: Mpox can be transmitted through close contact with an infected person or animal, or with contaminated materials.
3. Is there a vaccine for Mpox?
A: Yes, there are two vaccines approved by the WHO for use against Mpox.
4. What are the preventive measures for Mpox?
A: Preventive measures include avoiding close contact with infected individuals or animals, practicing good hygiene, and getting vaccinated.
5. Is Mpox a serious disease?
A: While Mpox can be a serious disease, the majority of cases are mild. However, it is important to seek medical attention promptly if you develop symptoms.
Conclusion
India is well-prepared to combat the spread of Mpox. By implementing proactive measures and raising awareness about the disease, the government aims to prevent a large outbreak and protect the health of its citizens. It is important for individuals to stay informed and take necessary precautions to reduce their risk of infection.
Tesla CEO Elon Musk has taken aim at US President Joe Biden for awarding the Presidential Medal of Freedom to philanthropist George Soros, calling it a "travesty." This comes after Soros' son accepted the award on his behalf, with Alex Soros stating that his father's legacy is one of fighting for freedom and human rights. The move has sparked criticism from MAGA supporters and Republican leaders, who view it as a "slap in the face" to America.
Tesla CEO Elon Musk made headlines for openly condemning President Joe Biden's decision to give billionaire philanthropist George Soros the highly prestigious Presidential Medal of Freedom. Musk expressed his disapproval on his social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, and called Biden's decision a "travesty." Biden announced the list of 19 honorees for this year, citing Soros' focus on global initiatives for democracy, human rights, education, and social justice as the reason for his selection. However, Musk's public criticism has sparked debate and raised questions about the controversial awardee.
The murder of journalist Mukesh Chandrakar in Chhattisgarh has led to the arrest of three suspects, including key accused Ritesh Chandrakar, who is a relative of Congress leader Suresh Chandrakar. Investigations have also revealed that the victim and the accused were cousins. Chandrakar's murder has drawn attention to an alleged corruption expose, which allegedly led to his death. In light of these developments, the state has launched an inquiry and seized illegally possessed land from the Congress leader's family.
The Bharatiya Janata Party has released its first list of candidates for the upcoming Delhi Assembly elections, including big names such as former MP Parvesh Sahib Singh Verma and MLA Kailash Gahlot. The list also features candidates from different backgrounds, such as former Congress MLA Rajkumar Chauhan and former Delhi University Students Union president Rekha Gupta. With this bold move, the BJP aims to secure a strong position in the upcoming elections.
Amidst the highly anticipated Delhi assembly elections, all eyes are on the Kalkaji constituency as Chief Minister Atishi of the ruling Aam Aadmi Party, former MP Ramesh Bidhuri of the Bharatiya Janata Party, and senior leader Alka Lamba of the Congress all vie for the seat. With a history of multiple party wins and changing loyalties, the race for Kalkaji is bound to be an intense one. As Atishi, Bidhuri, and Lamba all bring their unique strengths and experiences to the table, the outcome of this election will be crucial for all three parties involved.
The BJP has announced its candidate list for the upcoming Delhi elections, with Parvesh Verma set to contest against incumbent CM Arvind Kejriwal in the New Delhi seat. In response, Verma has openly challenged Kejriwal and called for accountability for his actions as CM. The BJP has also fielded other notable candidates, including Ramesh Bidhuri in Kalkaji, leading to speculation about the party's confidence in their own candidates.
Parvesh Verma, the BJP candidate for the New Delhi assembly seat, expressed his gratitude to the party leadership for giving him the opportunity. He confidently asserted that the BJP will form the next government in Delhi and promised to address issues such as tax mismanagement and unemployment. Verma also taunted his opponent, incumbent CM Arvind Kejriwal, and challenged him to not run away from the New Delhi seat. Meanwhile, Kejriwal responded to PM Modi's criticisms by highlighting AAP's achievements in education, healthcare, and housing and attacking the BJP's slow progress in these areas.
The BJP has released its first list of candidates for the upcoming Delhi Assembly elections, with 29 names announced. Former MP Parvesh Verma will be contesting against AAP supremo Arvind Kejriwal in the New Delhi seat, while Chief Minister Atishi's opponent will be former MP Ramesh Bidhuri in Kalkaji. Other key candidates include national office-bearers Dushyant Kumar Gautam and Ashish Sood. This announcement comes as the latest development in the highly anticipated elections, with more updates to come.
The third Maharashtra Mandir Nyas Parishad, attended by over 875 temple representatives, passed resolutions including conducting ‘Collective Aarti’ weekly and urging the government to free all temples in Maharashtra from state control. The event was held in Shirdi and was attended by key leaders and advocates of temple preservation. Key demands such as fast-tracking court cases regarding Kashi and Mathura and declaring temple premises as ‘alcohol and meat-free zones’ were also made. The National Organiser of the Mandir Mahasangh, Mr. Sunil Ghanwat, has urged the government to take prompt action on these resolutions.
On the 194th birth anniversary of Savitribai Phule, Nagar Kurnool MLA Dr. Rajesh Reddy emphasized the importance of following her ideals during an event organized by the District Education Department. He lauded the state government's declaration of January 3rd as Women's Teachers' Day and its commitment to realizing Savitribai's vision for social equality. In the presence of District Collector and Education Officer, several women teachers were honored and a student dressed as Savitribai Phule received special recognition.