Mpox in India: What precautions should pregnant women take?

In light of an “isolated” Mpox infection detected in a man in India, the Union Health Ministry verified that the case is similar to the earlier 30 cases reported in the country from July 2022. While this case is not part of the current public health emergency (reported by WHO) regarding clade 1 of pox, it still warrants precautionary measures for pregnant women.

Public health measures, including contact tracing and monitoring, are in place to ensure the situation is contained. The press release from the ministry on September 9, 2024, stated that there is no indication of any widespread risk to the public at this time.

Dr Shweta Mendiratta, senior consultant, obstetrician, and gynaecologist at Amrita Hospital Faridabad, told indianexpress.com that Mpox, formerly monkeypox, is a viral infection. Pregnant women should be particularly cautious because the pox virus can be transmitted to the fetus during pregnancy. “This transmission can happen if the mother is infected with the virus,” said Dr Mendiratta.

What are the risks for pregnant women?

Pregnant women are generally more susceptible to infections due to changes in their immune systems, stressed Dr Mendiratta. Dr Rani Koppula, DGO, MS general surgery, Gleneagles Hospitals, Lakdi Ka Pul, Hyderabad said the viral infection can cause fever, rashes, and swollen lymph nodes.

While data on Mpox during pregnancy is limited, some potential risks, according to Dr Mendiratta, include:

Severe illness: While Mpox is rare and doesn’t spread easily, the virus can cause severe symptoms if transmitted to a pregnant woman. These symptoms might include fever, skin rashes, and swollen lymph nodes. “In severe cases, the virus may lead to complications such as blindness or secondary infections. Although deaths are rare, especially with the type of Mpox spreading since 2022, it is still essential to be cautious,” said Dr Mendiratta.

Pregnancy complications: There’s a possibility of miscarriage, stillbirth, or preterm delivery, noted Dr Mendiratta.

Rashes can appear (representative) (Source: Freepik)

Transmission to the baby: The virus can pass from mother to child during pregnancy or childbirth, said Dr Mendiratta.

Precautions

To minimise the risk of contracting Mpox, pregnant women should

Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands frequently and avoid touching your face.

Avoid close contact: Avoid people with known or suspected Mpox infections. This also includes avoiding contact with materials like clothing or bedding that may have been in contact with an infected person, said Dr Mendiratta.

Use personal protective equipment: Wear a mask and gloves if you must be around someone with Mpox.

Be cautious in high-risk areas: Avoid travel to regions with ongoing Mpox outbreaks.

Seek medical attention: If you develop symptoms like fever, rash, or swollen lymph nodes, contact your doctor immediately. “If a pregnant woman is exposed to Mpox or develops symptoms like fever or skin rashes, it’s crucial to seek medical advice immediately. Early detection can help in managing the infection and reducing complications,” said Dr Koppula.

Isolation of the infected persons: If a pregnant woman is infected with Mpox, it’s crucial to isolate from others, including family members and pets, until all symptoms, such as rashes and scabs, have healed completely, said Dr Mendiratta.

Get vaccinated: Consult your healthcare provider about the safety and necessity of Mpox vaccination during pregnancy, said Dr Mendiratta.

Stay informed: Keep up with the latest guidelines from health authorities regarding Mpox and pregnancy.

Dr Mendiratta emphasised that while it’s important to remember that these precautions are helpful, they don’t guarantee prevention. “If you’re pregnant and concerned about Mpox, discuss your risk factors and preventive measures with your healthcare provider,” said Dr Mendiratta.

*DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.*

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