What is Monkeypox?
What is Monkeypox Definition: Monkeypox is a viral zoonotic disease caused by the monkeypox virus, similar to the smallpox virus. Origin: First discovered in 1958 in monkeys, with the first human case recorded in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Current Situation: Recent outbreaks have raised global concern, with cases reported in several countries outside endemic regions. The DNA of humans, monkeys, and apes is remarkably similar, reflecting our shared evolutionary history. Humans and Chimpanzees: Humans share approximately 98-99% of their DNA with chimpanzees, our closest living relatives. This high degree of similarity highlights how closely related we are in evolutionary terms. Humans and Gorillas: Humans share about 98% of their DNA with gorillas. Although gorillas are not as closely related to humans as chimpanzees are, they still share a significant amount of genetic material. Huma...