Meghalaya govt issues advisory amid rising Monkeypox cases globally

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaAugust 29, 2024

The World Health Organization (WHO) declared Monkeypox a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) on August 14, 2024. In response, the Health and Family Welfare Department of the Government of Meghalaya has issued an advisory to the public.

The department states, “If you have traveled in the last 21 days from a country that has recently reported confirmed or suspected cases of Monkeypox, and you develop symptoms such as fever, severe weakness, or an unexplained rash, immediately contact the helpline numbers 14410 or 108. This will enable health authorities to provide you with appropriate guidance and ensure timely medical care.”

As of August 18, 2024, Monkeypox cases have been reported globally in the following countries:

Africa: South Africa, Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda, Democratic Republic of Congo, Burundi, Central African Republic, Congo Brazzaville, Cameroon, Nigeria, Ivory Coast, Liberia.
Middle East: UAE.

In India, the last reported case of Monkeypox was in Kerala in March 2024, involving a person with a history of international travel. However, with the recent declaration of Monkeypox as a PHEIC on 14th August 2024, preparedness and response measures have been reviewed and strengthened at the highest level.

The public is advised not to panic and to stay informed about the situation through official channels.

Featured Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay