Monkeypox was literally a worldwide headline news story, and it has been the most talked-about issue concerning its transmission and effects. Though not a new disease, this remains one that most people hear and know little about. In this report, let’s break down what monkeypox is, how it spreads, its symptoms, and how you can protect yourself.
What is monkeypox?
A virus similar to the variola virus, which causes smallpox, causes the rare viral infection known as monkeypox. While there are some similarities between the two conditions, monkeypox tends to be much less virulent and far less contagious. Initially, scientists isolated the disease in monkeys in 1958, which gave rise to its name; however, animal infections are more common, with rodents and nonhuman primates serving as the primary hosts. In 1970, the Democratic Republic of the Congo detected the first human case.
How is monkeypox transmitted?
There are several ways to transmit monkeypox. These include:
Animal-to-Human Contact: The virus occurs when a person comes into contact with an infected animal through a bite, scratch, or by handling the animal’s blood, bodily fluids, or lesions.
Rarely does monkeypox spread from person to person. This is usually caused by an infectious rash, scabs, or body fluids. Respiratory droplets can also result from face-to-face contact or intimacy (like kissing or sexual activity).
Contaminated objects: When an infected person’s fluids or sores come into contact with the materials, bedding, or clothes, they spread the infection.
Monkeypox Symptoms
The symptoms of monkeypox are like those of smallpox but less severe. They typically occur within a period of one to two weeks and consist of:
Fever
Headache
Muscular pains
Back pain
Swollen Lymph nodes
Shivering
Weakness
A few days later, a rash appears, which tends to begin on the face and then generalize throughout the rest of the body. The rash evolves through different stages; in the first place, through macules (flat lesions), followed by papules, vesicles, and pustules (pus-filled blisters), which eventually scab over and then fall off.
The disease typically persists for 2-4 weeks, and while most affected individuals do not receive treatment, there are reports of more severe cases, particularly in those with weakened immune systems or those with underlying medical conditions.
Is monkeypox fatal?
Monkeypox is very rarely fatal, however. The outbreaks recently witnessed are a result of the relatively less virulent West African strain, which exhibits a mortality rate of around 1%. The Central African strain is generally more virulent and thus results in higher mortality. However, proper medical care always provides a favorable recovery chance.
Currently, there is no specific treatment available for monkeypox, but one can use antiviral drugs or smallpox treatments to aid in controlling the disease. Support care—symptom management and dehydration prevention—plays a major role in the patient’s recovery.
Studies have demonstrated that the smallpox vaccine effectively prevents approximately 85% of cases of monkeypox. If an outbreak occurs and you are deemed at high risk, such as healthcare workers or direct contacts of confirmed cases, local health authorities may recommend vaccination with the smallpox vaccine.
Protecting Yourself
With these tips, you can reduce your chances of contracting monkeypox:
Steer clear of any animals that may harbor the virus, particularly in areas where the virus is known to exist.
Hygiene: Continue washing your hands with soap and clean running water, or apply an alcohol-based sanitizer.
Avoid contact with a person showing symptoms, such as rashes, fever, etc.
Use contaminated items carefully. Refrain from sharing clothes, bedding, etc., with an infected person.
The Global Response to Recent Outbreaks
Reports of monkeypox cases have surfaced in various countries beyond Africa in 2022 and 2023. This has caused significant alarm in all the countries involved. The WHO and CDC health agencies began implementing step-by-step observation and restrictions to control the spread of the outbreak.
Vaccination through various campaigns, especially in risky areas, has been a significant controlling factor for the outbreak. People are becoming more aware of how to contain the virus, as well as how to prevent its symptoms.
Conclusion: Despite the severity of the disease, there’s no need to induce panic. Understanding the facts of this disease, its spread mechanism, and the preventive measures you are taking will undoubtedly enhance your safety and the safety of those around you. Should you suspect exposure or be experiencing symptoms, contact a health care professional for proper diagnosis and care.
In a world where health crises are already a major concern, staying informed and prepared is crucial for implementing the most effective safety measures.
