Monkeypox is a viral disease that has become the topic of discussion in recent times. Earlier this disease was mostly found in African countries, but now its cases are being seen in many countries around the world. This has increased concern among people and they want to know whether any vaccine is available to prevent monkeypox or not, especially in India.
Is there any monkeypox vaccine available in India?
At present, there is no specific vaccine available for monkeypox in India, however, since this virus is related to smallpox, the smallpox vaccine is also considered effective against monkeypox. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the smallpox vaccine can provide about 85% protection against monkeypox. But smallpox vaccination in India stopped many years ago, as smallpox was completely eradicated. Therefore this vaccine is no longer commonly available.
What is monkeypox?
Monkeypox is a rare viral disease belonging to the Orthopoxvirus genus of the Poxviridae family. Symptoms include fever, headache, muscle pain, fatigue, and rashes or pimples on the body. The disease is mostly transmitted to humans from animals, but recent cases of human-to-human transmission have also been reported.
Work on a new vaccine
However, the good news is that the Serum Institute of India, which developed the corona vaccine, is now working on a vaccine for monkeypox as well. According to Adar Poonawalla, CEO of the Serum Institute, after the emergency was declared regarding monkeypox, his company has started the process of making the vaccine. He hopes that this vaccine will be ready within a year.
Preparation and caution of the government
Even though no case of monkeypox has been reported in India yet, the government is fully alert about this potential threat. Passengers arriving from abroad are being screened at major airports in the country so that any suspected case can be identified immediately. Apart from this, Safdarjung Hospital in Delhi has been prepared as a dedicated center for the treatment of monkeypox.
Important things
Currently, there is no vaccine available for monkeypox in India, but the Serum Institute is working rapidly in this direction. Until then, people need to take precautions, such as following personal hygiene, avoiding travel to affected areas, and being cautious about coming in contact with animals. If symptoms of monkeypox appear, one should immediately contact a doctor.
Disclaimer: Some of the information given in the news is based on media reports. Before implementing any suggestion, please consult the concerned expert.
Also read: Monkeypox: If monkeypox enters India, what will be its impact, know how its entry can be stopped
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