What is Monkeypox?

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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.

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. Humans and Other Monkeys (e.g., Rhesus Monkeys): Humans share around 93-95% of their DNA with rhesus monkeys. This lower percentage compared to apes reflects a more distant evolutionary relationship, but it still indicates a close connection within the primate family.

Symptoms of Monkeypox

  • Early Symptoms:
    • Fever
    • Headache
    • Muscle aches
    • Back pain
    • Swollen lymph nodes
    • Chills
    • Exhaustion
  • Later Symptoms:
    • Rash (often starting on the face and spreading to other parts of the body)
    • Lesions progress from macules to papules to vesicles to pustules, then scabs.
    • The rash typically lasts 2-4 weeks.

Who Is at Risk?

  • General Population:
    • People living in or traveling to regions where monkeypox is endemic.
  • Specific Groups:
    • Close contacts of infected individuals.
    • Healthcare workers without proper protective measures.
    • Individuals with weakened immune systems.
    • Men who have sex with men (MSM) have been disproportionately affected in recent outbreaks.
  • Children and Pregnant Women:
    • Higher risk of severe disease.

Transmission of Monkeypox

  • Animal-to-Human:
    • Contact with the blood, bodily fluids, or cutaneous/mucosal lesions of infected animals.
  • Human-to-Human:
    • Respiratory droplets during prolonged face-to-face contact.
    • Direct contact with bodily fluids or lesions.
    • Indirect contact via contaminated materials (e.g., bedding).

Practical Ways of Prevention

  • General Hygiene:
    • Regular handwashing with soap and water.
    • Use of alcohol-based hand sanitizers.
  • Avoiding Contact:
    • Avoid close physical contact with infected individuals.
    • Do not handle animals that could harbor the virus.
  • Protective Measures for Healthcare Workers:
    • Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as masks, gloves, and gowns.
    • Isolating infected patients to prevent spread.
  • Safe Sexual Practices:
    • Use condoms and limit the number of sexual partners.
    • Be aware of symptoms and seek medical advice if exposed or symptomatic.

WHO Guidelines on Monkeypox

  • Surveillance and Reporting:
    • Immediate reporting of suspected cases to local health authorities.
  • Vaccination:
    • Smallpox vaccines have shown efficacy against monkeypox; countries with available stock may consider targeted vaccination for high-risk groups.
  • Travel Advisories:
    • WHO recommends travelers to endemic regions take precautions and seek medical advice if symptoms develop.

Gender-Specific Considerations

  • For Men:
    • Higher vigilance among MSM communities due to recent outbreaks.
    • Educate on the importance of early detection and treatment.
  • For Women:
    • Pregnant women should avoid exposure due to potential complications.
    • Education on symptoms and safe practices, especially in regions with outbreaks.

What To Do If You Suspect Infection

  • Seek Medical Attention:
    • Contact a healthcare provider immediately.
  • Isolate:
    • Self-isolate to prevent spreading the virus.
  • Follow Public Health Guidelines:
    • Adhere to local health authority instructions and WHO recommendations.
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