Mpox, also known as Monkeypox, is a rare viral zoonotic disease primarily found in remote parts of Central and West Africa. It gained international attention due to its similarities to smallpox, although it is less severe and less contagious. Mpox is caused by the monkeypox virus, which belongs to the Orthopoxvirus genus in the family Poxviridae.
What Causes Mpox?
Monkeypox is caused by the monkeypox virus, a member of the Orthopoxvirus genus. The virus is primarily transmitted from animals to humans through direct contact with the blood, bodily fluids, or skin/mucosal lesions of infected animals. The primary reservoirs are believed to be rodents and primates, particularly in forested regions of Central and West Africa.
Signs & Symptoms
The first signs of mpox include fever, headache, muscle aches, and exhaustion. Swollen lymph nodes (lymphadenopathy) are a distinctive feature that occurs before the rash appears. The rash typically starts on the face and spreads to other parts of the body, evolving through various stages before scabbing and falling off. The illness typically lasts between 2 to 4 weeks. Severe cases, especially in children and immunocompromised individuals, can lead to complications such as secondary infections or encephalitis.
Is Mpox the Same as Monkeypox?
Yes, mpox is another name for monkeypox. The term “mpox” was adopted to reduce the stigma associated with the name “monkeypox,” particularly after it gained global attention during recent outbreaks outside Africa.
Who is at Risk for Monkeypox?
Individuals living in or traveling to regions where monkeypox is endemic, such as Central and West Africa, are at higher risk. Those who come into contact with infected animals, either through hunting, consumption of bushmeat, or handling animals, are also at increased risk. Additionally, healthcare workers and family members caring for infected patients are at risk due to the potential for human-to-human transmission.
Is Mpox Serious?
Mpox can be serious, especially in children, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems. The severity of the disease can vary, but most cases are mild to moderate, with symptoms lasting between 2 to 4 weeks. Complications can include secondary bacterial infections, respiratory distress, and in rare cases, encephalitis.
How to Prevent Mpox?
Preventing mpox involves avoiding contact with animals that could harbor the virus, practicing good hand hygiene, and using personal protective equipment (PPE) when caring for infected individuals. Vaccination with the JYNNEOS vaccine is also an effective preventive measure, particularly for those at higher risk of exposure.
Is Mpox an STD?
Mpox is not classified as a sexually transmitted disease (STD). However, it can be transmitted through close physical contact, including sexual contact, if a person has lesions in the genital area. Transmission is primarily through direct contact with bodily fluids, lesions, or respiratory droplets during prolonged face-to-face contact.
How Long Can Monkeypox Last?
Monkeypox typically lasts between 2 to 4 weeks. The illness goes through various stages, starting with initial flu-like symptoms, followed by the development of a rash that progresses through different stages before scabbing and healing.
How to Confirm Mpox?
Mpox is confirmed through laboratory testing, particularly PCR (polymerase chain reaction) tests, which detect the virus in samples taken from lesions, blood, or throat swabs. Laboratory confirmation is essential for an accurate diagnosis, especially given the similarity of mpox symptoms to other diseases like chickenpox or smallpox.
Can You Get Mpox Twice?
It is currently unclear how long immunity to monkeypox lasts after an infection. While some level of immunity is likely, there is not enough evidence to confirm that a person cannot get mpox more than once.
How Do You Treat Monkeypox?
There is no specific antiviral treatment for monkeypox. Treatment is mainly supportive, focusing on alleviating symptoms, managing pain, and preventing secondary infections. In severe cases, patients may require hospitalization for more intensive care.
How Did Monkeypox Start?
Monkeypox was first identified in laboratory monkeys in 1958, but the first human case was recorded in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The virus is believed to have existed in animals long before being transmitted to humans, likely through activities like hunting or handling of bushmeat.
Is Mpox Easily Spread?
Mpox is not as easily spread as some other viral infections like COVID-19. Human-to-human transmission requires close contact with an infected individual or their contaminated materials. The virus can also be transmitted from animals to humans through direct contact with infected animals.
Is There a Vaccine for Monkeypox?
Yes, there is a vaccine for monkeypox called JYNNEOS (also known as Imvamune or Imvanex), which was approved by the U.S. FDA in 2019. It is a live, non-replicating vaccine that provides protection against monkeypox. Vaccination is recommended for individuals at high risk of exposure, such as healthcare workers and people in regions where monkeypox is endemic.
What Animals Carry Monkeypox?
Monkeypox is primarily found in animals like rodents and primates, particularly in Central and West Africa. The exact animal reservoir is unknown, but African rodents are suspected to play a significant role in maintaining the virus in nature.
What is the Mortality Rate for Mpox?
The mortality rate for mpox varies depending on the strain of the virus and the population affected. In general, the mortality rate ranges from 1% to 10%, with higher rates observed in children and individuals with compromised immune systems.
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