Kerala: The Kerala health department initiated a high-level inquiry into the death of a youth with monkeypox-like symptoms.
The youth hailed from Chavakkad Kuranjiyur in Thrissur district & tested positive in a foreign country, Kerala State Health Minister, Veena George informed.
“The result of the test conducted in the foreign country was positive. He sought treatment in Thrissur due to severe fatigue and encephalitis. Monkeypox is not a fatal disease,” George quoted.
She said that delay in seeking treatment will be investigated.
The meeting will be held at Punnayur in Thrissur will be held in this regard.
George added that the deceased youth’s contacts are being urged to undergo isolation and that a contact list and route map are being prepared.
India has so far reported five cases of monkeypox so far, of which three cases are from Kerala, one is from Delhi and one from Andhra Pradesh’s Guntur.
Soon after, the central government issued an alert and urged states to remain cautious. NITI Aayog member (Health) Dr VK Paul said there is absolutely no need for any panic as the government has taken significant measures to keep the disease in check.
According to World Health Organisation (WHO), more than 18,000 cases have been reported from 78 countries.
“The monkeypox outbreak can be stopped if countries, communities and individuals inform themselves, take the risks seriously, and take the steps needed to stop transmission and protect vulnerable groups,” said WHO director general Dr Tedros Ghebreyesus.
(With Agency Inputs)