AIZAWL: In response to the global outbreak of monkeypox, the Mizoram health department has taken proactive measures by establishing a core committee on Mpox.
This decision was made during a key meeting held last Friday, where it was also determined that several specialized groups would operate under the core committee.
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Additionally, a state-level committee will be formed, working under the coordination of higher authorities.
During the meeting, Dr Vanlalrengpuia, the state nodal officer of the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP), delivered a detailed presentation highlighting the rise in Mpox cases across various countries.
He discussed the importance of prevention, treatment strategies, and preparedness.
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Although India has yet to report any cases of the virus, Dr Vanlalrengpuia emphasized the need for vigilance given the ease of global travel, which could facilitate the virus’s entry into the country.
In a significant development, Zoram Medical College (ZMC), Mizoram’s only medical college, has been designated as a Sentinel Site by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).
ZMC was selected as one of the 28 top laboratories across India and has been implementing its sentinel site plan since December 2023.
The Civil Hospital in Lunglei is also expected to be utilized as an additional sentinel site.
Amid concerns circulating on social media, the Health Department issued a clarification regarding rumors that a girl from Siaha town had contracted Mpox.
The Mizoram health department confirmed that the girl had been diagnosed with chickenpox with a secondary infection.
She was admitted to LCMC Lawngtlai on August 13 and was discharged on August 20.
The Mizoram health department has urged the public to refrain from spreading misinformation and causing unnecessary panic on social media.