New Delhi: The ministry of health has issued guidelines to keep a close watch over the increasing cases of monkeypox disease around the world. International travellers would be monitored as the disease is spreading rampantly in many countries. Meanwhile, the ministry confirmed that there are no reported cases of monkeypox, as of date, in India. Those who have travelled to a country where monkeypox has been reported in the last 21 days would be included in the list of persons to be kept under surveillance. Unusual spots on the skin, swollen lymph nodes, fever, headache, body pain and fatigue are some of the symptoms of monkeypox.
When to test?
Money pox disease could be detected at a regular laboratory where PCR tests are available. Samples of fluid that oozes out of blisters or sores, blood and urine could be tested for monkeypox and its gene identification. The positive samples would then be sent to the National Institute of Virology in Pune. Even after getting affected by the virus, it would take at least 6 – 13 days to show symptoms. The symptoms may persist up to 5 – 21 days. Meanwhile, the disease would last for 2 – 4 weeks.
The virus could be contagious from two days before the sores are spotted on the body until they disappear.
Be alert!
Monkeypox could get serious in children and patients suffering from a serious illness. The death rate could even go up to 11%. Shortage of breath and diminishing eyesight, while in isolation, should be taken seriously. Meanwhile, symptoms like decreased urine output, extreme fatigue and loss of appetite shouldn’t be ignored.
