India has reported its first case of the new mpox strain, known as clade 1b, which has prompted the World Health Organization (WHO) to issue a public health emergency alert. This new variant, identified as highly transmissible, has been associated with a recent mpox outbreak in Africa. The patient, a 38-year-old man from Kerala’s Malappuram district, tested positive for the virus after returning from Dubai. This marks the first known case in India involving the clade 1b strain.

Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a viral disease that can cause painful skin lesions and has been categorized by the WHO as a significant public health threat, particularly in Africa where the virus has been more prevalent. The WHO declared a public health emergency related to mpox in Africa in August, but since then, the virus has spread beyond the continent, affecting countries like Sweden, Thailand, and Pakistan.

The confirmed case in Kerala is particularly concerning because it involves the more transmissible clade 1b variant, which has been linked to severe outbreaks in other regions. According to India’s Health Ministry, the infected individual is currently receiving treatment in a hospital. Local health authorities are actively tracing and monitoring those who came into contact with the patient, including around 29 family members and friends, as well as 37 passengers who were on the same flight. So far, none of these individuals have shown any symptoms of mpox.

This case comes on the heels of India’s previous experiences with mpox, although earlier cases were associated with the clade 2 strain, which is considered less infectious. In the past two years, the country has reported over 30 cases of mpox, all related to the older clade 2 variant. Earlier this month, another case was detected in a man from the northern state of Haryana, who had been admitted to a hospital with symptoms but has since recovered.

Mpox is a zoonotic virus, meaning it spreads from animals to humans. It can also spread between people through close physical contact, including skin-to-skin interaction, sexual contact, and even through respiratory droplets during close conversation. Typical symptoms include fever, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, and the appearance of lesions across the body. While the disease can be treated and managed, it poses a serious risk if left untreated, and in severe cases, it can be fatal.

In light of the recent developments, the Indian government has issued a nationwide advisory urging states to remain vigilant for any potential cases of mpox. The federal health authorities are working to prevent further transmission by enhancing surveillance, contact tracing, and treatment protocols. In addition, 35 specialized laboratories across India have been designated to test for suspected cases of mpox, ensuring that diagnostic capabilities are widely available in case of further outbreaks.

This situation underscores the ongoing global concern about mpox and its variants, especially as new strains like clade 1b continue to emerge and spread. While India has successfully managed previous cases, the arrival of a more transmissible variant presents new challenges for public health officials. Continued vigilance, testing, and swift response will be crucial in preventing further spread of this virus within the country and beyond.