Mpox scare: AIIMS Delhi issues protocol for handling patients amid global surge in cases

AIIMS Delhi issued a protocol for handling suspected Monkeypox patients on Tuesday amid a global spike in cases. The development came even as the central government directed airport, ports and border authorities to remain vigilant. Three Delhi hospitals — Safdarjung hospital, Ram Manohar Lohia hospital and Lady Hardinge — will also set up isolation facilities.

“No cases of Mpox detected in Delhi so far, but we are prepared and there is no need to panic. Three Delhi government hospitals directed to set up isolation rooms for suspected and confirmed cases of Mpox,” a health department official told PTI.

Protocol shared by AIIMS Delhi

Screening in Triage area

— Upon arrival, patients with fever, rash, or a history of contact with confirmed Monkey pox cases should be flagged for immediate assessment.
 

— Identify key symptoms: fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, swollen lymph nodes, chills, exhaustion, and characteristic skin lesions (maculopapular rash that may progress to vesicles and pustules).

Isolation/ Holding area

— Immediately place suspected patients in a designated isolation area to minimize contact with other patients and staff.
 

— AB-7 Beds no. 33, 34, 35, 36, and 37 has been earmarked to isolate the MONKEY POX patients.

— These beds will be allotted to the MONKEY POX patients on the recommendation of the Emergency CMO and treated by the - Medicine department AB-7 shall remain a temporary holding area for the patient till he/she is shifted to the hospital earmarked for the definitive care (Safdarjung Hospital).

Notification to IDSP

— Inform the officials of Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) with contact no. 8745011784 when a suspected case is identified.
 

— Provide them with the patient's details, brief history, clinical findings and contact details.

Referral to Safdarjung Hospital

— Safdarjung Hospital has been designated for managing and treating Monkey Pox patients. Accordingly, any patient suspected of having monkey pox should be referred to Safdarjung Hospital for further evaluation and treatment.

Ambulance

— A dedicated ambulance has been allotted to shift the patients to Safdarjung hospital. The Emergency staff has to inform the ambulance coordinator on the mobile number 8929683898 to shift the suspected Monkey pox patient to Safdarjung hospital.

Patient Handling and Isolation

— All patients should be handled with strict infection control measures. Staff should use personal protective equipment (PPE) when dealing with suspected cases.

Documentation and Communication

— Proper documentation of the patient's details, symptoms, and referral process should be maintained.