Srinagar, Sept 09: In response to India’s first suspected case of Mpox, the Health Department of Kashmir has implemented stringent precautionary measures across hospitals in the region.
On Monday, the Directorate of Health Services Kashmir convened a meeting with key officials to review and reinforce the preparedness of local healthcare facilities. Dr. Sameena Gul, State Surveillance Officer of the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP), assured the public that the directorate is well-prepared and has enacted all necessary precautions. “We have previously encountered only suspected cases of Mpox in the valley. We are on high alert and have all required measures in place. There is no need to panic; we are ready for any eventuality,” Dr. Gul stated.
Last month, the directorate conducted orientation sessions for healthcare workers to familiarize them with Mpox control measures. These sessions included training on the basics of managing potential Mpox cases.
Meanwhile, the Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS) in Srinagar has also stepped up its response. The institute has established an isolated ward equipped with six beds, expandable to 34 if needed, and a dedicated control room to manage the situation. SKIMS is enhancing its testing capacity, developing treatment guidelines, and maintaining heightened surveillance following the World Health Organization’s designation of Mpox as an emergency.
The officials said signage for the isolation ward will be enhanced for better guidance; requisition for signboards has been sent to the SKIMS Estates Department.
Notably, the Infectious Diseases Unit of the Department of General Medicine is assessing the medication needs for Mpox treatment. “Sufficient stocks of PPE kits, N95 masks, surgical gloves, and other protective gear are available,” he said.
The Department of Community Medicine and Infectious Diseases is drafting guidelines for health workers to manage screening and infection control, particularly at airports and railway stations. These guidelines will also serve as training materials.
The SKIMS has also established a dedicated Control Room for the Mpox management which is also functioning as a helpline Center with the number: 0194-2403679.
