India reported its first mpox case from the fast-spreading clade 1b variety in the southern state of Kerala. Health Ministry spokesperson Manisha Verma confirmed the case, which involves a 38-year-old man who had traveled from the United Arab Emirates and was admitted to a government hospital in Malappuram last week.
Prior to this, India had not recorded any cases from this new strain. In response, federal authorities advised all states to stay vigilant and prepare for potential cases.