Monkeypox is a rare but potentially serious viral disease that has recently gained global attention due to outbreaks outside its traditional endemic regions. While often overshadowed by other viral diseases, monkeypox is important to understand as it has the potential to affect a wide range of people. In this blog, we will explore what pox is, how it spreads, the symptoms it causes, and ways to prevent it.

What is Monkeypox?

As a viral zoonotic illness, pox is spread from animals to people. It is caused by the monkeypox virus, which belongs to the same family of viruses as smallpox (Orthopoxvirus). However, monkeypox is generally less severe than smallpox, and it is not as easily transmitted from person to person.

The disease was first discovered in 1958 when outbreaks occurred among monkeys used for research, hence the name “monkeypox.” The first human case was identified in the Democratic Republic of Congo (formerly Zaire) in 1970. Since then, pox has remained endemic in parts of Central and West Africa, particularly in countries such as Nigeria, Cameroon, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

How Does Monkeypox Spread?

The main way that pox is transmitted is by direct contact with diseased animals. Rodents, such as squirrels, rats, and certain types of monkeys, are believed to be the main carriers of the virus. People can become infected through contact with the bodily fluids, skin lesions, or respiratory droplets of infected animals. Eating undercooked meat from infected animals can also lead to transmission.

Human-to-human transmission is less common but can occur through close contact with an infected person. This includes exposure to respiratory droplets, skin lesions, or contaminated objects, such as bedding or clothing. Healthcare workers and family members of infected individuals are at higher risk if they come into close contact without adequate protection.

In the 2022 outbreak, unusual patterns of spread were noted outside of Africa, particularly in Europe and North America. These cases have been linked to close skin-to-skin contact, including during intimate or sexual activities. While this raised concerns, monkeypox is not classified as a sexually transmitted infection, but contact during such activities could increase the risk of transmission.

Symptoms of Monkeypox

which measures the interval between infection and symptom manifestation, typically lasts between 6 and 13 days but can also go up to 21 days. The disease normally appears in two stages:

1. The Early Stage (Prodromal Phase): Monkeypox

The first stage is characterized by flu-like symptoms. These include:

Fever

Headache

Muscle aches

Back pain

Swollen lymph nodes (a key distinguishing factor from smallpox)

Chills

Exhaustion

Swollen lymph nodes are a significant symptom in this phase, as they differentiate pox from diseases such as smallpox or chickenpox.

2. The Rash Stage:

A rash usually appears a few days following the fever. Usually starting on the face, this rash eventually spreads to the palms, soles of the feet, and sexual regions of the body. There are various phases to the rash, including:

Flat red spots (macules)

Raised bumps (papules)

Fluid-filled blisters (vesicles)

Pus-filled lesions (pustules)

Scabs

The lesions can be painful and may take several weeks to heal. Once the scabs fall off, the person is considered no longer contagious. The overall illness can last for 2 to 4 weeks, and while most people recover fully, complications such as secondary bacterial infections, pneumonia, and encephalitis (brain inflammation) can occur in severe cases.

Treatment and Vaccination

There is no specific treatment for pox, but the symptoms can be managed. Most cases are mild and resolve without the need for hospitalization. However, in severe cases, supportive care such as fluid replacement, pain relief, and treatment of secondary infections is essential.

The smallpox vaccine has been shown to protect monkeypox, as both diseases are caused by related viruses. Vaccines such as ACAM2000 and Jynneos (also known as Imvamune or Imvanex) have been used to control pox outbreaks. Jynneos is a newer vaccine that is considered safer for individuals with weakened immune systems and is more commonly used during recent outbreaks.

In 2022, public health authorities in various countries recommended targeted vaccination for high-risk populations, including healthcare workers, laboratory personnel, and individuals who had close contact with confirmed cases.

Preventing Monkeypox

Prevention is crucial in stopping the spread of pox, especially as the virus has now spread beyond endemic regions. Here are key preventive measures:

Avoid contact with animals that may carry the virus: 

This includes rodents, primates, and animals found in areas where mpox is known to be endemic.

Practice good hygiene: 

Wash your hands regularly with soap and water, especially after handling animals or coming into contact with people who may be infected.

Avoid close contact with infected individuals: 

This includes avoiding contact with skin lesions, bodily fluids, and objects or surfaces that may have been contaminated.

Use personal protective equipment (PPE): 

Healthcare workers and caregivers should use appropriate PPE, including gloves, masks, and gowns when caring for infected patients.

Vaccination: 

In high-risk areas or for people exposed to the virus, vaccination may be recommended.

Conclusion

Monkeypox, while rare, is a serious viral infection that warrants attention due to its potential for human-to-human transmission, especially in regions outside its usual endemic areas. Understanding the symptoms, modes of transmission, and prevention strategies is essential for controlling the spread of the disease. While most cases resolve without severe complications, staying informed and taking appropriate precautions can help reduce the risk of outbreaks. If you suspect exposure to monkeypox, seek medical advice promptly, especially if you develop symptoms like fever, rash, or swollen lymph nodes.

As global health systems continue to monitor the spread of pox, it is important to follow updates from public health authorities and practice preventive measures to minimize risk.