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Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya on Tuesday informed the Upper House that scientists have isolated the monkeypox virus, and a vaccine, like that for COVID-19, might be developed.
While replying to a question regarding the steps taken to create awareness about monkeypox, he said: "Our scientists have isolated Monkeypox, and ICMR has also floated an 'expression of interest. Like it was done during the time of COVID-19. Based on that, our scientists who come forward should be given an isolated virus to develop its vaccine."
Upon being asked in the Rajya Sabha about the progress of vaccines for the disease, the Health Minister said that studies are still being conducted to find proper vaccination for the disease.
Only contact tracing and vaccinating people who were in close contact with a disease carrier are required, and there is no need for countrywide vaccination for this disease. He added that scientists have isolated the monkeypox virus and will also develop a vaccine in India.
According to the minister, monkeypox is not a new disease in India and the world. Since 1970, many cases have been reported from Africa. The World Health Organization (WHO) has paid particular attention to this infection. India has also started monitoring the cases.
On the steps taken to create awareness about monkeypox, Mandaviya said that the government has set up a task force, and actions are also being taken to increase awareness about the disease.
He urged the people not to panic as the central government had coordinated with the state governments to contain the virus.
"When cases started appearing worldwide, India had already begun preparations. Before the first case appeared in Kerala, we had issued guidelines to all the states. We have also written to the governments at the international level that the screening report of the travellers should also be sent to us.
"If someone in the family has had monkeypox, then keeping a distance from him for 12-13 days can prevent the infection. With vigilance, we can control it", Mandaviya said.
Speaking about Kerala, where the first case of monkeypox was reported, Mandaviya said: "If the government of Kerala needs any help from the central government, it will be done. Still, the expert team of the central government is guiding the state government from time to time.
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The above article has been published from a wire agency with minimal modifications to the headline and text.
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