AIIMS Delhi issues protocol for handling suspected mpox patients amid international concern
mpox virus. The statement came soon after the World Health Organisation (WHO) declared the virus to be of international concern and a public health emergency.
«Monkey pox is a virual zoonosis with symptoms similar to those seen in the past in smallpox patients, although clinically less severe. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has declared Monkey pox outbreak as a public health emergency of international concern, thereby requiring heightened awareness, rapid identification, and stringent infection control measures to prevent further spread,» AIIMS said in its official protocol order.
Among the protocol issued are that of isolation, ensuring PPE suits, notification to the Integrated Diseases Surveillance Programme (IDSP), dedicated ambulances for shifting patience, and more.
Screening upon arrival: Patients with fever, rash, or a history of contact with confirmed mpox cases will be flagged for immediate assessment after which key symptoms will be identified.
Among key symptoms are fever, headache, muscle ache, backpain, swollen lymph nodes, chills, exhaustion, and skin lesions, noted AIIMS-D.
Isolation: Patients showing symptoms suspected to be that of mpox will thereon be isolated in holding areas. Specific beds in the holding areas have been allotted for such patients.
IDSP notification: Integrated Diseases Surveillance Programme (IDSP) officials are to be immediately notified along with a brief history, clinical findings, and contact details of the patient.
Moreover, AIIMS Delhi ordered the proper
