The outbreak of monkeypox virus is increasing rapidly all over the world. The World Health Organization (WHO) has once again warned about monkeypox. WHO says that droplets (droplets of saliva) are an insignificant means of spreading the virus compared to physical contact.
Also, WHO has stressed the need for more research on how poxviruses spread. The rapidly spreading MPox was declared a global public health emergency by the WHO Director-General on 14 August. MPox is an orthopoxvirus, a less severe disease with symptoms similar to smallpox (chickenpox). Cases of MPox are currently being reported in countries around the world, starting in Congo, Africa. From there, the virus has spread to other countries.
What did the WHO spokesperson say?
WHO spokeswoman Margaret Harris said on Wednesday that the virus is likely to spread through contact with someone who has open sores, talking closely with someone, breathing closely with someone or physical contact, but these are all common ways of spreading. The virus is still present when you are talking to someone who has the virus, but the droplets that come out of your mouth are not the main way the virus spreads.
What is India's preparation?
At present, there is not a single active case of MPOX in India. The government has ordered officials at airports, ports and borders to remain alert. AIIMS, Delhi has issued a protocol for possible cases of MPOX. Isolation wards have been prepared for MPOX cases in government hospitals.