Is Mpox a threat to Indian children? A doctor weighs in on WHO guidelines and more. (Image: iStock)
MpoxA zoonotic viral infection previously largely restricted to central and western Africa, it has recently attracted global attention due to its spread to non-endemic regions. Health The World Health Organization (WHO) has released updated guidelines to address this emerging threat. As a pediatrician, it is critical to assess the potential impact of monkeypox on children in India and explore the implications of these new guidelines for their health and well-being.
Times Now Digital spoke to Dr Amit Gupta, Senior Consultant Paediatrician and Neonatologist, Motherhood Hospital, to understand the disease better. We also asked him how it would affect Indian children.
Understanding Mpox
Mpox is caused by the monkeypox virus, which belongs to the genus Orthopoxvirus, which includes the smallpox virus. Mpox shares several similarities with smallpox, including its clinical presentation, which includes fever, swollen lymph nodes, and a characteristic rash that progresses through several stages. Although less contagious than smallpox, Mpox can pose significant health risks, particularly for people with compromised immune systems, including young children.
Recent WHO guidelines
The updated WHO guidelines on Mpox include several important recommendations:
- Enhanced surveillanceRobust surveillance and timely reporting are crucial to controlling monkeypox.
- Diagnostic testsAccurate tests such as PCR are essential to identify monkeypox.
- Vaccination:Vaccines are recommended for high-risk groups, including specific monkeypox vaccines.
- Public educationRaising awareness about the symptoms and prevention of monkeypox is essential.
Potential impact on Indian children
The impact of Mpox on Indian children could be significant for several reasons:
- Limited immunity:Unlike adults who may have received smallpox vaccines in the past, most Indian children have not been vaccinated against smallpox, leaving them potentially more vulnerable to Mpox.
- Living conditionsMany Indian families live in close quarters, which can facilitate the spread of infectious diseases. Children living in densely populated areas may be at higher risk of contracting and transmitting the disease.
- Disparities in health careAccess to healthcare services varies widely across India, with rural and marginalized communities often experiencing delays in diagnosis and treatment. This disparity could exacerbate the effects of monkeypox on children, who are already at higher risk.
- Educational and psychological impact:The physical manifestations of Mpox, including the characteristic skin rash, can have significant psychological and social impacts on children. The stigma associated with the visible symptoms and the disruption caused by the condition can affect a child’s educational experience and mental health.
Is Mpox a serious threat to Indian children?
Although Mpox is generally less severe than smallpox, it is not without risks. Children, particularly those under five, may experience more severe symptoms and complications, such as secondary bacterial infections and pneumonia. Although the fatality rate for Mpox is lower than for smallpox, it can be significant, especially in populations with limited access to health care.
The possibility of long-term sequelae, such as scarring from the rash, adds another level of concern. These complications can affect the child’s quality of life and overall well-being.
Preventive strategies and recommendations
To mitigate the risk of Mpox among Indian children, several measures should be considered:
- Vaccination initiatives:The Indian government should prioritise the development and distribution of vaccines targeting Mpox. Vaccination campaigns could focus on high-risk groups and regions where cases have been reported.
- Strengthening surveillance systems:Improving surveillance and reporting mechanisms for early detection and treatment of Mpox cases is essential. Health authorities must ensure that systems are in place to effectively monitor and respond to outbreaks.
- Public health educationComprehensive public education campaigns should be launched to raise awareness about Mpox. These campaigns should target parents, educators, and healthcare providers to promote understanding and early intervention.
- Access to health care:Efforts should be made to improve health care infrastructure, particularly in rural and underserved areas. Access to timely medical care and diagnostic services is crucial to manage and control the spread of Mpox.
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