AIIMS guidelines for treating mpox patients in 6 points

Aug. 21, 2024, 4:15 a.m.

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The All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) has released comprehensive guidelines for the management of mpox. The mpox protocols focus on early identification of the disease and aim to ensure effective management of potential outbreaks.

The AIIMS guidelines come shortly after the World Health Organization declared mpox a global health emergency. India has not yet reported a confirmed case during the current global outbreak. However, AIIMS has urged hospitals to take proactive measures to prepare and safeguard public health.

Here are the key elements of the AIIMS protocols for managing mpox cases:

Initial assessment and triage

Upon arrival in the triage area of the emergency department, individuals exhibiting symptoms such as fever, rash, or with a known history of contact with confirmed mpox cases should be assessed immediately. This initial evaluation is essential for identifying potential cases and facilitating timely intervention.

Symptoms to identify mpox

The guidelines identify key symptoms associated with mpox, including fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, swollen lymph nodes, chills, exhaustion, and distinctive skin lesions. These lesions typically begin as a maculopapular rash, progressing to vesicles and pustules, which are characteristic of the disease.

Immediate isolation

Individuals suspected of having mpox must be promptly isolated to prevent the spread of the virus. AIIMS has coordinated with several Delhi hospitals, including Safdarjung Hospital, Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, and Lady Hardinge Hospital, to ensure that isolation facilities are prepared for effective patient care. Safdarjung Hospital has been designated as the primary facility for definitive care of mpox patients, according to the notification.

Integrated mpox surveillance

As part of the established procedures, AIIMS has directed that any suspected case of mpox should be reported to the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP). The dedicated contact number for this notification is 8745011784. Prompt reporting is crucial for monitoring and effectively managing potential outbreaks.

Advertisement Ambulance facility

AIIMS has indicated that individuals suspected of having mpox should be referred to Safdarjung Hospital for specialized assessment and treatment. To ensure swift and appropriate care, AIIMS has designated a specific ambulance for the safe transport of these patients.

PPE for medicos

AIIMS has emphasized that medical personnel involved in the management of mpox should wear personal protective equipment (PPE) when interacting with suspected cases. Comprehensive documentation of patient information is also a requirement for a coordinated and efficient response to the outbreak.