MUMBAI: The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has proactively set up a 14-bed isolation ward at SevenHills Hospital in Marol in response to the global concerns surrounding monkeypox. This viral disease, characterized by rash and flu-like symptoms, was recently declared a public health emergency of international concern by the World Health Organisation (WHO).
Although no cases of monkeypox have been reported in India to date, the Union Health Ministry has issued guidelines for the management and prevention of the disease. As part of the preparedness measures, the BMC held a meeting on Wednesday with airport authorities to discuss the situation. The Airport Health Officer (APHO) department has already initiated thermal screening of passengers arriving from countries where monkeypox has been reported.
Monkeypox cases have been confirmed in neighboring Pakistan and in Sweden, prompting the BMC to intensify surveillance measures. According to a BMC press release, the APHO will focus on screening passengers arriving from African countries, where the monkeypox outbreak originated. In addition, a health information desk has been established at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport to assist in monitoring and guiding travelers.
The precautionary steps taken by the BMC reflect the need for vigilance, even in the absence of reported cases in India. If a passenger exhibits symptoms suggestive of monkeypox, they will be immediately transferred to the newly established isolation ward at SevenHills Hospital for further evaluation and treatment.

The BMC’s swift action underscores the seriousness with which local authorities are addressing the potential threat of monkeypox. By implementing these measures, Mumbai aims to stay ahead in preventing the spread of this disease and ensuring public health safety.