Following directives from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a high-level meeting on Sunday assessed India's readiness for Mpox and the associated public health strategies.
The meeting affirmed that currently, "there are no reported cases of Mpox in India." It was noted that the World Health Organisation (WHO) declared Mpox a Public Health Emergency of International Concern on August 14.
Chaired by Dr. P K Mishra, the Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister, the meeting included participation from several senior officials. It was reported to Modi that "based on the current evaluation, the likelihood of a widespread Mpox outbreak in India with continuous transmission is minimal," as stated in a press release from the Prime Minister's Office.
The meeting instructed health teams at international airports and other entry points to remain vigilant regarding incoming passengers potentially carrying infections into India.
