Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala has reported two new cases of Monkeypox (Mpox), confirmed by State Health Minister Veena George on Wednesday. The infected individuals, both men who recently returned from the United Arab Emirates (UAE), are currently under medical care.
One patient, a resident of Wayanad district, was initially diagnosed, followed by a second case from Kannur district. Both are undergoing treatment at Pariyaram Medical College, Kannur, and their contact tracing and travel histories are being investigated.
Government Measures:
- The Health Department has issued an advisory urging those in contact with the patients to monitor themselves for symptoms and report any illness immediately.
- A state-level Rapid Response Team (RRT), convened under Minister Veena George, has met to review the situation and prepare additional isolation facilities.
- Awareness campaigns have been intensified, including at airports, to educate travelers about the disease.
Precautions for the Public:
- Travelers from abroad who exhibit symptoms are advised to self-isolate and notify the health department promptly.
- Vulnerable groups such as the elderly, pregnant women, and children have been urged to take extra precautions.
Kerala had previously reported monkeypox cases in September during a global outbreak of the disease. The government continues to monitor the situation closely to prevent further spread.
