Monkeypox, a viral disease, has become a global concern due to its spread beyond usual areas. It was first found in humans over 50 years ago. Now, outbreaks in new places have raised worries about its global spread.
This article will explore monkeypox, its symptoms, how it spreads, and its growing global presence. It has caught the attention of international health experts.
Monkeypox affected areas, Picture Source: WHO
What is Monkeypox?
Monkeypox is caused by the monkeypox virus, part of the same family as the smallpox virus. It was first found in monkeys in 1958. Humans get it from animals, mainly rodents, or from other infected people.
It’s common in Central and West Africa, especially in the Democratic Republic of Congo. But, recent cases in other parts of the world have raised concerns about its spread.
Symptoms of Monkeypox
Monkeypox has symptoms like smallpox but is usually milder. Symptoms start with fever, headache, muscle aches, and swollen lymph nodes. Then, a rash appears, often on the face, and spreads to other parts of the body.
The rash goes through different stages, from flat to fluid-filled, and eventually scabs over. Most people get better in 2 to 4 weeks without treatment, but severe cases can happen.
Transmission and Spread
Monkeypox spreads mainly through contact with infected animals’ blood, fluids, or skin lesions. It can also spread between people through close contact with infected droplets, skin lesions, or objects.
Recent cases outside Africa are linked to travel, animals, and sometimes community spread. The US had its first outbreak in 2003 from African rodents. Cases have since been reported in the UK, Europe, and North America.
Global Prevalence and Outbreaks
Monkeypox was once rare, mainly in Africa. But since the 2000s, cases have increased. Factors include stopping smallpox vaccination and more people moving into areas where the virus is common.
In 2022, a big outbreak happened in Europe, North America, and other places. Many cases were in people with no travel history to Africa, showing local spread. Health authorities have stepped up efforts to control it.
In 2024, mpox, or monkeypox, is a big worry for health experts worldwide, especially in Africa. By July 31, 2024, over 102,000 cases were confirmed globally, with 219 deaths. Most cases are in Africa, especially in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The DRC has seen over 19,000 cases and more than 500 deaths this year.
The disease has also spread to new areas in Africa, like Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda. This has led the Africa CDC to declare mpox a Public Health Emergency of Continental Security in August 2024. Even though the outbreak is mostly controlled, new cases pop up in Europe, the Americas, and the Western Pacific.
Controlling mpox is tough due to limited testing and healthcare access in rural Africa. The WHO is watching the situation closely. They stress the importance of global cooperation to manage the spread and prevent more outbreaks.
Prevention and Treatment
Prevention involves avoiding contact with animals and practicing good hygiene. Vaccines for smallpox work against monkeypox too. They’re used in some areas to protect high-risk groups.
There’s no specific treatment for monkeypox, but antiviral drugs for smallpox might help. Most people recover with supportive care, like managing symptoms and preventing infections.
Conclusion
Monkeypox was once rare and mainly found in certain areas. Now, it’s a global concern because it’s spreading more widely. It’s not as contagious as COVID-19, but it can still cause big outbreaks. This is because many people don’t have immunity to it.
It’s important to know how this virus spreads and its effects worldwide. This knowledge helps us stop and control outbreaks. As the world gets more connected, we need to be careful. We must use surveillance, vaccines, and education to fight monkeypox.
