New Delhi's First Mpox Case: Patient Status and Measures

The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared mpox a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) twice

Initially in 2022-2023
Again starting in August 2024

This highlights the importance of coordinated global efforts to control the virus’s spread.

First Case of Mpox Confirmed in New Delhi

India’s capital, New Delhi, has confirmed its first case of Mpox. A 26-year-old man from Hisar, Haryana, was admitted to Lok Nayak Jai Prakash (LNJP) Hospital after returning from a country experiencing ongoing Mpox transmission. Delhi Health Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj made an unannounced visit to the hospital to assess its preparedness for handling Mpox and dengue cases. The patient is currently isolated in a special ward.

Patient Condition and Health Status

The patient, who exhibits symptoms such as genital ulcers and skin rashes but no fever was admitted on Saturday. Health officials report that

His condition is stable
He has no underlying health issues.

Authorities have stated that there is no immediate cause for widespread concern.

Public Reassurance from Health Authorities

The honourable Minister has reassured the public that there is no need for panic. The Union Health Ministry has categorized this case as isolated, with no immediate threat to the broader population.

Designated Facilities for Mpox Treatment

LNJP Hospital has been designated as the primary facility for treating Mpox in Delhi, with

20 isolation rooms available, including 10 specifically for confirmed cases.
Additionally, Guru Teg Bahadur (GTB) Hospital and Baba Saheb Ambedkar Hospital are on alert, each prepared to manage 10 confirmed cases and five suspected cases.

WHO Declaration and Ongoing Monitoring

Mpox was recently declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) by the World Health Organization (WHO) and is spreading across various regions. Delhi’s health authorities are closely monitoring the situation and are ready to act if more cases emerge.