What is Monkeypox (Mpox)?

The monkeypox virus, part of the same family as the smallpox virus, was first identified in 1958 when it appeared in monkeys used for research. Since then, it has been found in a variety of animals, such as rodents and primates. The first human case was reported in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

While monkeypox typically spreads from animals to humans, it can also spread between people. Because of this, raising awareness and taking preventative measures are essential for managing outbreaks effectively.[10]

Causes of Monkeypox (Mpox)

Monkeypox is a zoonotic disease, meaning animals can transmit it to humans. However, it can also spread between people. The causes and transmission routes include:

Animal-to-Human Transmission:

• • Direct contact: With the blood, bodily fluids, or lesions of infected animals (e.g., monkeys, rodents).
  • Eating undercooked meat: From infected animals.
  • Bites or scratches: From infected animals.
  • Human-to-Human Transmission:
    • Close contact: With an infected person’s skin lesions, respiratory droplets, or bodily fluids.
    • Contaminated materials: Like bedding or clothing used by someone with monkeypox.
    • Prolonged face-to-face contact: This can result in transmission through respiratory droplets.
    • Sexual contact: Mpox has also been detected in bodily fluids, so it may spread through intimate contact.

Monkeypox is not as easily transmissible as diseases like COVID-19 but still requires caution, especially in communities where cases are reported.

Symptoms of Monkeypox (Mpox)

• Fever
• Headache
• Muscle aches and back pain
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Chills
• Exhaustion
• Rash: Within 1-3 days after fever, a rash often develops, starting on the face and spreading to other parts of the body, including the palms, soles, and mucous membranes. The rash evolves from flat lesions to raised bumps and eventually scabs.

How to Avoid Monkeypox (Mpox)

While there is no specific monkeypox treatment, preventing the virus’s spread is crucial. Here’s how you can protect yourself and reduce your risk of infection:

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Avoid Contact with Infected Individuals:

If someone has monkeypox, avoid close contact with them, especially with their skin, clothing, or bedding. Wear protective equipment, such as gloves and masks, if you need to care for an infected person.

Practice Good Hygiene:

Regularly wash your hands with soap and water, especially after contact with infected individuals or animals.

Use hand sanitizers when soap and water are not available.

Avoid Contact with Wild Animals:

Do not handle sick or dead animals in areas where monkeypox is prevalent.

Avoid consumption of undercooked meat from wild animals.

Use Protective Gear:

If you’re a healthcare worker or someone in close contact with infected individuals, use personal protective equipment (PPE) like masks, gloves, and gowns.

Vaccination:

• • If available, the smallpox vaccine can offer protection against monkeypox. Vaccines like Jynneos have been approved for preventing monkeypox and are available in certain areas during outbreaks.

Dos and Don’ts During a Monkeypox (Mpox) Outbreak

Dos:

1. Seek Medical Attention: If you experience symptoms like fever, rash, or swollen lymph nodes, consult a healthcare provider immediately.
2. Isolate: If diagnosed with monkeypox, stay isolated to prevent spreading the virus to others.
3. Follow Public Health Guidelines: Listen to advice from local health authorities regarding isolation, vaccination, and hygiene protocols.
4. Disinfect Surfaces: Clean and disinfect surfaces, bedding, and clothing that may have come into contact with infected individuals.
5. Cover Lesions: If you have skin lesions, cover them to reduce the risk of spreading the virus.
6. Keep Yourself Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids to help your body fight off the infection.

Don’ts:

1. Nevertheless, don’t panic—although monkeypox is a serious disease, it tends to be less severe than smallpox, and most people recover fully.
2. Don’t Ignore Symptoms: If the rash looks mild, seek medical attention early.
3. Don’t Touch Rash or Scabs: If you or someone else has a rash or scabs, avoid touching them to prevent spreading the virus.
4. Don’t Share Personal Items: Avoid sharing bedding, clothing, towels, or eating utensils with infected individuals.
5. Moreover, meat should always be cooked thoroughly, especially in areas where monkeypox occurs.. Avoid consuming undercooked meat. Avoid eating undercooked meat.