Monkeypox

For the last few weeks, we have all been hearing about the disease called Monkeypox, and this disease is slowly spreading across the world. Yesterday 4^th case was detected in India, which was in Delhi.

What is Monkeypox?

It is a rare disease caused by the monkeypox virus. It leads to rash and flu-like symptoms. Like the better-known virus that causes smallpox, it is a member of the family called orthopoxvirus. It was discovered in 1958 when two outbreaks of pox-like disease occurred in the group of monkeys being used in research. It can spread mainly through coming into contact with an infected animal, and can sometimes spread through skin-to-skin contact with an infected person. There are two types (clades) of the monkeypox virus-one that originated in Central Africa and the other that originated from West Africa. The current world outbreak (2022) is caused by a less severe West African clade. Although it is rare a disease. But the number of cases is increasing in Africa, as well as in regions that have not seen these infections before.

Where else is Monkeypox found?

For decades t was only seen in Africa. However, it is occasionally found in other countries including the USA. In 2003 first outbreak of monkeypox occurred in the USA. A shipment of animals was imported from Ghana to Texas. The infected animal spread the virus, which infected 47 people. In the summer of 2021, a case of monkeypox was found in a USA resident who had traveled from Nigeria to the USA. Then, 2022 brought outbreaks to regions outside of Africa, including Europe, Asia, America, and Australia.

What are the signs and symptoms of Monkeypox?

After exposure, it may be several days to a few weeks before you develop symptoms. Early signs of monkeypox include flu-like symptoms like- fever, chills, headache, muscle aches, fatigue, and swollen lymph nodes. After a few days, a rash often develops. The rash starts as flat, red bumps, which can be painful. These bumps turn into blisters, which fill with pus. Eventually, blister crust over and the fall-the whole process takes two to four weeks. You can also get sores in your mouth, vagina, and anus.

Not everyone with monkeypox develops all of the symptoms. In fact, in the current (2022) outbreak, many cases are not following the usual pattern of symptoms. This atypical presentation includes only a few lesions, no swollen lymph nodes, less fever, and other signs of illness. But even if you do not show any signs of infection, you can still spread it to others through prolonged close contact.

How do you catch monkeypox?

It is spread when you come into contact with an animal or a person infected with Virus. Person-to-person spread is rare. It occurs when you come in contact with the sores, scabs, respiratory droplets, or oral fluids of an infected person usually through close intimate situations like cuddling, kissing, or sex. You can also get monkeypox by coming into contact with recently contaminated materials like clothing, bedding, and other linens used by infected persons or animals.

How is monkeypox diagnosed?

Because it is rare, doctors may first suspect other rash illnesses, such as measles or chickenpox. But swollen lymph nodes usually distinguish monkeypox from other poxes. To diagnose monkeypox, your healthcare provider takes a tissue sample from an open sore (lesion). Then they send it to a lab for polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing (genetic fingerprinting). An infected person may also need to give a blood sample to check for the monkeypox virus or antibodies your immune system makes it.

Is monkeypox curable?

It is usually a self-limited disease with symptoms lasting from two to four weeks. Most patients get better on their own without treatment. The doctors will try to relieve your symptoms, prevent dehydration and give antibiotics to treat secondary bacterial infections it occurs. Currently, there is no approved antiviral treatment for monkeypox. Antiviral drugs may help, but no surety.

How do you prevent the monkeypox virus?

The best way to help prevent the spread of the monkeypox virus is to:

• Avoid contact with infected animals.
• Avoid contact with bedding and other materials contaminated with the virus.
• Thoroughly cook all foods that contain animal meat or parts.
• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water.
• Avoid contact with people who may be infected with the virus.
• Practice safe sex, including the use of condoms.
• Wear a mask that covers your mouth and nose, when with others.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces.
• Use personal protective equipment (PPE) when caring for people infected with the virus.

Is monkeypox fatal?

The less severe West African clade which is causing the 2022 outbreak-no one has died from this outbreak till recently. But monkeypox can lead to other problems like pneumonia and infections in your brain (encephalitis) or eyes, which can be fatal.

After the Covid 19 pandemic, we are hearing a lot of media stories about monkeypox as an emerging threat. But monkeypox is a rare disease that spread through close contact as mentioned above.

In the end, be alert and take all precautionary measures to stay safe.

Waiting for your views on this blog.

Anil Malik

Mumbai, India

25^th July 2022