What is monkeypox? How monkeypox spreads? Can humans get monkeypox virus?

Monkeypox

 

Monkeypox is a viral disease(Monkeypox virus or MPV) and there is an ongoing outbreak. This virus is similar to the smallpox virus. This disease is endemic in Nigeria. The initial cluster of cases was confirmed in the United Kingdom in May 2022. This is the first time that monkeypox has spread outside of Africa.

How monkeypox spreads?

A well-known source of spread is a recent visit to Nigeria. It is a zoonotic infection which means it spreads from animals(rodents and primates) to humans and it can also be transmitted from human to human. It is transmitted by direct contact with an infected person specifically those who are having lesions on their skin or genitals. It can also spread by respiratory secretions such as coughing, sneezing, and talking. It can also spread by touching infected surfaces or fabrics. There are reported cases of spread through sexual intercourse specifically men who have sex with men.

What are the symptoms of monkeypox?

• Body rash, may look like pimples or scabs and may be itchy or painful
• Fever
• Body aches
• Rigors and chills
• Enlarged lymph nodes
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Sore throat
• Cough
• Nasal congestion

Sometimes people may experience only flu-like illness before the rash and after one or two weeks all the symptoms are gone.

Duration of symptoms?

Monkeypox symptoms usually start within two to three weeks after exposure. The first symptom to appear is a flu-like illness. After one to four weeks patient develops a body rash. The illness typically lasts for three to four weeks.

Monkeypox test

Monkeypox virus is a double-stranded DNA virus so usually, PCR or nucleic acid testing is done. A blood sample or sample of the skin lesion is obtained for diagnosis. Always contact your local healthcare provider for further information.

When someone should get tested for monkeypox?

If someone thinks that he may have monkeypox it is always recommended to contact your local healthcare provider for help and further procedure.

Does monkeypox have many types?

There are two types of monkeypox, CLADE1 and CLADE2. The recent outbreak is from CLADE2.

Is monkeypox dangerous?

The recent outbreak is from CLADE2. It is rarely dangerous. 99% of patients recover completely. People with a weakened immune system may have a severe illness.

What are treatment options for monkeypox?

There is no specific treatment. symptomatic treatment is given to all patients.

Is there any vaccine for prevention?

The monkeypox virus is genetically similar to the smallpox virus. Vaccines used for smallpox may be beneficial to prevent monkeypox infection.