Monkeypox Alert: Delhi AIIMS Issues Protocol To Handle Patients Effectively

Amidst the global scare of Monkey Pox after a spike seen in cases worldwide, Delhi AIIMS has issued protocols to handle patients suffering from Monkey Pox more effectively. The central government has already directed airport, ports and border authorities to remain vigilant for any suspect of Mpox. Three Delhi hospitals — Safdarjung hospital, Ram Manohar Lohia hospital and Lady Hardinge — are to set up isolation facilities to treat the patients.

AIIMS Delhi issued a protocol for handling suspected Monkeypox patients on Tuesday amid a global spike in cases. A health department official confirmed that though there were no cases of Mpox detected in Delhi so far, but it is important to stay prepared even though there is no need to panic.

Protocol shared by AIIMS Delhi to treat patients and prevent a spread

Screening

This should be done 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.

The key symptoms to look for are: 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

Suspected patients should be immediately placed in a designated isolation area to minimize contact with other patients and staff.

Notifying IDSP

The Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) with contact no. 8745011784 should be called and informed when a suspected case is identified and provided with the patient's details, brief history, clinical findings and contact details.

Transferring patients 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 sent 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.

Source: Mint