Monkeypox is a rare viral infection caused by the monkeypox virus, which belongs to the same family of viruses as the variola virus, the causative agent of smallpox. Though similar to smallpox, monkeypox is generally less severe and is not as easily transmitted.
Origin and Transmission
Monkeypox was first identified in laboratory monkeys in 1958, hence its name. The first human case was recorded in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The virus is primarily found in Central and West African countries, where it is considered endemic.
The virus is zoonotic, meaning it can spread from animals to humans. It is believed to be carried by rodents, such as rats and squirrels, and can be transmitted to humans through direct contact with the blood, bodily fluids, or cutaneous or mucosal lesions of infected animals. Human-to-human transmission is also possible through respiratory droplets, direct contact with an infected person’s lesions or bodily fluids, and indirectly through contaminated materials like bedding.
Symptoms of Monkeypox
The symptoms of monkeypox typically appear within 7 to 14 days after exposure but can range from 5 to 21 days. The disease begins with flu-like symptoms, including:
- Fever
- Headache
- Muscle aches
- Backache
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Chills
- Exhaustion
A few days after the onset of fever, a rash develops, often beginning on the face and then spreading to other parts of the body, including the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. The rash progresses through several stages:
- Macules: Flat, red spots.
- Papules: Raised bumps.
- Vesicles: Fluid-filled blisters.
- Pustules: Pus-filled lesions.
- Scabs: Lesions that eventually crust over and fall off.
The illness usually lasts 2 to 4 weeks, and most patients recover without needing treatment. However, in some cases, particularly in children and individuals with weakened immune systems, the disease can be severe or even fatal.
Prevention and Treatment
There is no specific treatment for monkeypox, but the smallpox vaccine, antivirals, and vaccinia immune globulin (VIG) can be used to control outbreaks. Preventive measures include:
- Avoiding contact with animals that could harbor the virus.
- Practicing good hygiene, such as frequent handwashing.
- Using personal protective equipment (PPE) when caring for infected individuals.
The World Health Organization (WHO) and other health agencies closely monitor monkeypox outbreaks to prevent the spread of the disease.
Recent Outbreaks
While monkeypox is primarily confined to Africa, sporadic cases have been reported in other regions due to international travel or the importation of animals. In recent years, there have been concerns about its spread to non-endemic countries, prompting increased awareness and preventive measures worldwide.