Disease concerns drives visits to dermatologists

With four cases of monkeypox reported in India, one in Delhi and three cases, including one death, in Kerala, anxious patients with skin issues are visiting dermatologists, seeking reassurance that it is not connected to monkeypox. Although the numbers are not alarming, people with minor skin ailments are rushing to consult dermatologists, out of fear of monkeypox. A consultant dermatologist has reportedly been revealed stating that at least 25 per cent of COVID patients develop rashes due to hypersensitivity to the virus. They too are worried if those rashes are related to monkeypox.

While chickenpox is often confused with monkeypox, chickenpox lesions are itchy. Virus Research and Diagnostic Laboratory at Bengaluru Medical College and Research Institute have received testing kits for monkeypox. However, they have not received any further samples for testing. Meanwhile, Infectious Disease Research Foundation has begun sewage surveillance for monkeypox at Bengaluru International Airport.