Mpox, previously known as monkeypox, is a viral disease that can spread between individuals primarily through close contact and occasionally from contaminated environments. The virus was first identified in the Democratic Republic of the Congo in 1970 and has since become endemic in Central and West Africa. Despite its long history, mpox was largely neglected until a global outbreak in 2022 prompted the WHO to declare it a public health emergency.
Mpox is transmitted through direct contact with an infected person or contaminated objects, including clothing, bedding, and surfaces. The virus can also spread through respiratory droplets during close interactions, and there is potential for transmission from pregnant individuals to their fetuses, as well as from infected humans to animals and vice versa. The WHO has emphasized the importance of avoiding contact with wild animals, particularly in regions where the virus is prevalent.
Symptoms and Severity
The symptoms of mpox typically include a rash that can last for two to four weeks, accompanied by fever, headache, muscle aches, and swollen lymph nodes. The rash, which resembles blisters, can appear on various parts of the body, including the face, hands, feet, and genital areas. Individuals with mpox are considered infectious until all blisters have crusted over and a new layer of skin has formed.
While most cases of mpox resolve on their own with supportive care, some individuals may experience severe symptoms requiring hospitalization. Vulnerable populations, such as newborns, pregnant individuals, and those with compromised immune systems, are at higher risk of complications and death. The fatality rate for mpox ranges from 0.1% to 10%, depending on various factors such as access to healthcare and underlying health conditions.
Prevention and Vaccination
Preventing the spread of mpox involves thorough cleaning and disinfection of surfaces and objects, as well as practicing good hand hygiene. In regions where animals carry the virus, it is crucial to avoid unprotected contact with wild animals and to ensure that any animal-derived food is cooked thoroughly.
The WHO recommends several vaccines for mpox, although mass vaccination is not advised at this time. Instead, vaccination is recommended for individuals at high risk of exposure, such as travelers to regions with active mpox cases. The vaccines MVA-BN, LC16, and ACAM2000 are currently approved for use against mpox in various countries.
As the situation evolves, global health authorities are urging decisive action to prevent history from repeating itself. The resurgence of mpox serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing threat posed by infectious diseases and the importance of vigilant public health measures.
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