An isolation ward with six beds has been established at the new Government General Hospital (GGH) in Vijayawada to prepare for potential monkeypox (mpox) cases. As of August 26, 2024, there are no reported cases of mpox in the country. This precautionary measure follows the World Health Organisation’s declaration of mpox outbreaks in Congo and other parts of Africa as a global emergency.
According to Dr. Naga Chakravarthy, Assistant Professor of General Medicine at GGH, mpox symptoms closely resemble those of chickenpox, with rashes, bumps, fever, diarrhea, and cough being common. Unlike chickenpox, mpox necessitates isolation due to its contagious nature. High-risk groups include pregnant women, children, the elderly, diabetics, and immunocompromised individuals. Most patients, however, can recover without hospitalization.
The National Centre for Disease Control reports that mpox spreads through large respiratory droplets, requiring prolonged close contact, or through direct contact with bodily fluids and lesion material. Transmission is also possible by contact with contaminated clothing or linens and from animals like rodents via bites or scratches.
A special team has been formed under the orders of the Superintendent to ensure that symptomatic individuals are isolated. Dr. Chakravarthy emphasized the need for separate rooms and bathrooms for those infected, recommending isolation for 5-7 days, with recovery occurring within 7 to 15 days.
Original Story https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/andhra-pradesh/isolation-ward-set-up-at-vijayawada-hospital-for-people-with-mpox-symptoms/article68568364.ece
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