9 September 2024 : PIB Summary For UPSC

1. Suspected Mpox case under investigation; patient put under isolation, no cause for alarm

(Source – https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=2052937 )

Context

A young male patient, recently returned from a Mpox-affected country, is a suspected case of Mpox. Isolated and stable, the case is being managed per protocols, with contact tracingemphasise preparedness and minimal public risk.

Mpox (Monkeypox):

• Mpox (Monkeypox) is a viral zoonotic disease caused by the monkeypox virus.
• Transmission occurs through close contact with infected individuals, animals, or contaminated materials.
• Symptoms include fever, headache, muscle aches, fatigue, and a distinctive rash with pustules.
• Incubation period ranges from 6 to 13 days but can be up to 21 days.
• The disease is generally self-limiting, lasting 2-4 weeks, though severe cases can occur.
• Human-to-human transmission primarily happens via respiratory droplets, body fluids, or skin lesions.
• Prevention includes isolation, proper hygiene, and vaccination for high-risk groups.
• The smallpox vaccine has shown effectiveness in preventing Mpox.
• The outbreak in 2022 was primarily spread through sexual contact.
• Recent outbreaks have been reported in non-endemic countries due to global travel.