India has reported its first case of mpox caused by the fast-spreading clade 1b strain, marking a significant development in the spread of the virus in South Asia. The case was identified in Kerala, a southern state, where health officials confirmed that the strain belonged to the newer, fast-spreading clade 1b variant. This is notable as it is the first case from this strain to be reported in India, a country that had previously dealt with the older clade 2 strain.
The identification of the clade 1b strain in India has raised concerns, particularly given the rapid spread of the virus in other parts of the world. The clade 1b variant of mpox has been known to spread quickly, and its presence in India indicates that the country could potentially face a broader outbreak if precautionary measures are not effectively implemented.
The patient, a 38-year-old man, had recently traveled from the United Arab Emirates to Kerala, where he began to show symptoms of the disease. He was admitted to a government medical college hospital in the Malappuram district for treatment. Kerala authorities, along with central government health officials, confirmed that the man’s case was indeed due to the clade 1b strain of the virus. The man’s condition is reportedly stable, and he is receiving medical care under the supervision of health authorities.
In response to the case, Kerala health officials have implemented strict monitoring procedures for individuals who were in close contact with the patient. A total of 29 of the man’s family members and friends, as well as 37 passengers who were on the same flight from the UAE, are being closely monitored. According to Dr. Shubin C, Malappuram district’s nodal officer for infectious diseases, none of these individuals have exhibited symptoms of mpox thus far. However, they are continuing to be observed as part of a broader strategy to contain the potential spread of the virus.
While the case in Kerala is the first from the clade 1b strain in India, it is not the country’s first experience with mpox. Between 2022 and March 2023, India recorded approximately 30 cases of mpox, which were attributed to the older clade 2 strain of the virus. In fact, earlier this month, another case of clade 2 mpox was also reported, underscoring that both strains of the virus are now circulating within the country.
The emergence of the clade 1b strain in India is a cause for concern, especially considering the rapid spread of the virus in other parts of the world. The World Health Organization (WHO) has been closely monitoring the spread of mpox, particularly since the virus began spreading outside its endemic regions in Central and West Africa. The fast-spreading clade 1b strain, first identified in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), has prompted the WHO to declare the mpox outbreak a global health emergency. The virus has since spread to neighboring countries, raising fears of a broader outbreak.
Mpox is a viral disease that is primarily transmitted through close physical contact. This includes skin-to-skin contact, sexual contact, and contact with contaminated surfaces or materials, such as clothing or bedding. Unlike other global pandemics, such as COVID-19, there is no evidence to suggest that mpox spreads easily through the air. However, the potential for transmission through close contact, particularly in crowded environments, has led health authorities to remain vigilant.
In response to the increasing number of cases worldwide, India’s federal health authorities had already issued an advisory earlier this month, urging all states to remain vigilant and prepared for potential mpox cases. The advisory emphasized the importance of early detection, isolation of infected individuals, and prompt medical treatment to prevent the further spread of the virus. Kerala, in particular, has taken a proactive approach to managing the case, with local health officials ensuring that all necessary precautions are in place to prevent a wider outbreak.
The detection of the clade 1b strain in India is part of a larger global pattern of mpox transmission. The virus, which was once confined to endemic regions in Africa, has now spread to multiple countries, including those in Europe, the Americas, and Asia. While the majority of cases have been reported in Central and West Africa, the emergence of the virus in other parts of the world has raised alarms about its potential to cause widespread outbreaks.
The clade 1 strain of mpox, which includes both the endemic form and the clade 1b variant, is of particular concern due to its ability to spread rapidly. In the DRC, both the endemic form and the newer clade 1b strain are currently circulating, posing a significant public health challenge. While mpox is not as easily transmissible as some other viral infections, its ability to spread through close physical contact means that it can quickly affect communities, particularly those in densely populated areas.
India, as the world’s most populous nation, faces unique challenges in managing the spread of mpox. The country’s large population and high population density make it vulnerable to outbreaks of contagious diseases. However, India also has a strong public health infrastructure and has demonstrated its ability to manage previous outbreaks of infectious diseases. The country’s experience with the COVID-19 pandemic has also led to improved surveillance, testing, and containment strategies, which will be crucial in managing the mpox outbreak.
As India confronts its first case of mpox caused by the clade 1b strain, health authorities are focused on containing the spread of the virus and ensuring that those who may have been exposed are closely monitored. The rapid identification of the case and the implementation of precautionary measures demonstrate India’s commitment to managing the outbreak effectively. However, with the virus spreading globally, continued vigilance and coordination with international health organizations will be key in preventing a larger outbreak in the country.