Do Indians have strong immunity to fight against the Mpox strain? (Image credit: iStock)
The rise in mpox cases across the world has raised concerns in India, although the country has not reported any cases so far. Last week, the WHO declared mpox a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC) due to its widespread prevalence in parts of Africa. In response, India is preparing for a possible outbreak, with the Karnataka government announcing the creation of an isolation ward for any suspected or confirmed mpox case. This ward will include 50 general beds and five ICU beds as a preventive measure to contain the possible spread of the disease.
But do Indians have strong immunity to fight against mpox? Let’s check it out!
Dr Muzamil Sultan Koka, a physician at the Department of Critical Care Medicine at Marengo Asia Hospitals in Gurugram, says that while monkeypox was once thought to be a rare disease, recent outbreaks have drawn attention to the need for increased awareness and preparedness. As a zoonotic disease, monkeypox is transmitted from animals to people. The smallpox virus that causes smallpox It is related to the mpox viruswhich is the source of the disease. Both viruses are members of the Orthopoxvirus genus.
“The new strain, known as clade 1b, has been noted because its genetic makeup differs significantly from that of existing strains. While the behaviour of this new clade is still unknown, it is important to consider how the Indian population would respond to this potential threat,” he said.
Factors influencing the immunity of Indians
Environmental and genetic factors
Immunity in India’s diverse population may be influenced by both environmental and genetic factors. The wide genetic variation in the population may affect how individuals’ immune systems respond to infections, including monkeypox. However, further research is needed to identify specific genetic markers that may provide protection or increase vulnerability to monkeypox in Indians.
Environmental factors also play a role. India’s tropical climate and high urban population density can contribute to the spread of infectious diseases. Strong and adaptable public health policies are therefore critical to address emerging threats such as Clade 1b.
Historical immunity to smallpox based on vaccination
An important factor influencing immunity against monkeypox is the historical smallpox vaccination programme. The smallpox vaccine, widely administered in India until the 1980s, has been shown to offer cross-protection against monkeypox due to the similarity between the live attenuated virus used in the vaccine and the monkeypox virus.
However, it is important to note that the immunity provided by the smallpox vaccine may wane over time. While those vaccinated before 1980 may retain some immunity, people born after the smallpox vaccination program ended may lack this protection. This immunity gap could make younger generations more susceptible to monkeypox, including the new clade 1b strain.
Possible limitations
Lack of public awareness
Even though monkeypox is gaining international attention, awareness about the disease and its transmission remains low in India. This lack of knowledge could lead to delays in diagnosis and treatment, increasing the risk of complications and spread. Public health education is vital to ensure that people recognise the symptoms of monkeypox and seek medical help immediately.
Comorbidities and co-infections
Like other countries, India faces challenges related to comorbidities and co-infections, which can weaken immune function. Chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease and respiratory disorders are common and can increase susceptibility to severe consequences in the event of an mpox infection.
HIV is another major problem, as it weakens the immune system and makes people more prone to opportunistic infections such as mpox. People with compromised immunity due to these conditions may be at increased risk of severe disease if exposed to clade 1b.
Prevention tips
Public health surveillance
India’s public health system has experience in managing outbreaks, but continued surveillance and monitoring are essential. With the emergence of clade 1b, early case detection and contact tracing are crucial to controlling the monkeypox outbreak. Improving laboratory capabilities for accurate diagnosis is also a key component.
Immunization strategies
Given the potential for waning immunity to smallpox vaccine, targeted vaccination strategies may be advisable, such as vaccination of healthcare workers, persons at high risk of exposure, and those living in areas where monkeypox cases have been reported. Research should also focus on the efficacy of smallpox vaccine against clade 1b.
Public awareness campaigns
Raising public awareness about the symptoms, transmission routes, and prevention measures for mpox is critical. Simple measures such as regular handwashing and avoiding contact with potentially infected animals can reduce the risk of infection. Public health campaigns should emphasize the importance of seeking medical attention if symptoms such as fever, rash, or swollen lymph nodes appear.
Monkeypox poses a significant threat to public health, and preparedness (including surveillance, vaccination strategies, and public awareness efforts) will be critical to protecting public health. Proactive and surveillance measures are needed to address this outbreak.
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