Thiruvananthapuram: A new case of Mpox has been confirmed in Kerala after a 43-year-old man from Kilimanoor in Thiruvananthapuram district tested positive for the infection. The patient had recently returned from Saudi Arabia and is currently undergoing treatment at the Medical College Hospital. Health officials said his condition is stable.
Following the confirmation, the Health Department has started contact tracing and monitoring measures to prevent any further spread of the disease.
What is Mpox?
Mpox is a viral disease that was originally transmitted from animals to humans. However, it can now spread directly between people. While the disease is generally less severe than smallpox, it belongs to the same family of viruses and causes similar symptoms.
Health experts note that Mpox is not an airborne disease like COVID-19 or H1N1 influenza. The virus mainly spreads through close contact with an infected person, including direct skin-to-skin contact, face-to-face interaction, sexual contact, or by sharing bedding, clothes, or personal items.
Symptoms of Mpox
Common early symptoms include:
- Fever
- Severe headache
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Back pain
- Muscle aches
- Tiredness and low energy
Within a few days of fever, red rashes and blisters may appear on the body. These are commonly seen on the face, arms, and legs, but can also develop on the palms, genitals, and around the eyes.
Health authorities have advised people to remain alert and seek medical attention if they develop symptoms, especially after recent international travel.