Monkeypox virus: Stay away from these, say experts

In England, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has discovered 16 new cases of monkeypox. The new cases raise the total number of confirmed cases in England to 101 as of May 26. There are currently three confirmed cases in Scotland, one in Wales, and one in Northern Ireland, bringing the total number of confirmed cases in the United Kingdom to 106.

Also Read: If monkeypox spreads, it would be consequential, says Joe Biden

People infected with monkeypox virus have been advised to stay away from their pet rodents for three weeks, as there is a risk that the animals will become infected and spread the infection to others.

“It is unlikely (but cannot be ruled out) that an infected rodent pet could spread infection to peridomestic or wild rodents. As rodents may not show clinical signs of infection, and the incubation period is unknown, testing to detect the presence of antibodies as well as virus would provide more confidence in ruling out infection.,” the guidance on monkeypox disease states.

Based on current evidence, temporary removal from the household for a limited quarantine period (21 days) and testing to exclude infection is recommended for pet rodents in households where there are infected people, particularly where there are infected human contacts who have had close direct and prolonged contact with the animal or its bedding and/or litter, the monkeypox disease guideline adds.

In an exclusive interview with ANI, Dr Aparna Mukherjee, Scientist E, ICMR said, “India is prepared for the infections as it is rapidly spreading in non-endemic countries like Europe, USA and others. However, no cases have been reported in India so far.”

The health expert also emphasised keeping a close watch on unusual symptoms, especially those who have a travel history from the monkeypox virus-infected countries.

(With ANI inputs)