In response to the World Health Organization (WHO) declaring mpox, a viral illness caused by the monkeypox virus, as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC), Tamil Nadu’s Directorate of Public Health (DPH) and Preventive Medicine has issued urgent directives to its health officials.The WHO’s recent declaration marks the second time in two years that mpox has been designated a PHEIC, following a significant outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo that has extended to neighboring countries in Africa. The current surge in mpox cases, including a new sexually transmissible strain, clade Ib, has prompted global concern.
In a circular issued by Director of Public Health T.S. Selvavinayagam, all District Health Officers (DHO), Airport Health Officers in Chennai, Tiruchi, Madurai, and Coimbatore, and Port Health Officers in Chennai and Tuticorin have been instructed to enhance vigilance. They are advised to become well-acquainted with the clinical signs of mpox, implement rigorous thermal screening at airports and ports, and scrutinize travel histories for passengers arriving from affected regions, specifically the Democratic Republic of Congo and Central African countries.
The enhanced measures are aimed at preventing the potential spread of mpox within Tamil Nadu and ensuring prompt identification and isolation of suspected cases. Health authorities are urged to stay updated on the evolving situation and follow protocols to manage and mitigate any risks associated with the outbreak.
The WHO’s designation underscores the global nature of the threat posed by mpox and the necessity for coordinated international and local efforts to address the health emergency.