THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: According to the latest test results, the Monkeypox reported in Kerala is not highly contagious. The test results of two samples collected from Kerala have been completed. Genotyping studies have identified the A2 variant as the cause of Monkeypox in Kerala. The A2 virus is less contagious than other variants.

The country’s first Monkeypox case was confirmed in Kerala on July 15. The disease was detected in a Kollam native, who returned from UAE. Following which, a Kannur native and a Malappuram native also tested positive for the virus. In addition to Kerala, a Monkeypox case was reported in Delhi as well.

Meanwhile, the World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the outbreak of Monkeypox, a rare virus, a global health emergency as cases continue to rise across the world. Majority of the cases have been reported in countries such as Spain, US, Germany and UK. The death rate of Monkeypox is around 3-6 per cent. The smallpox vaccine has been found to be 85 per cent effective against Monkeypox.