Monkeypox Disease: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment and Prevention

Dr.Prabhat Sinha, 3 mins read

What is Monkeypox disease?

Monkeypox is a viral disease that spreads from animals to humans (zoonotic disease). The virus that causes Monkeypox belongs to the Orthopox species that also causes smallpox. Several countries have reported cases of Monkeypox in recent weeks, raising global concerns as the world is still reeling from the effect of the COVID-19 deadly virus. Since May 13, 2022, the World Health Organization (WHO) has received reports of several cases from 12 countries that are not endemic to the virus. However, in terms of treatment, it is less serious. With the eradication of smallpox in the 1980s and the subsequent cessation of smallpox vaccination, Monkeypox has emerged as a serious public health problem and has led to questions like, how is the Monkeypox virus transmitted, what are the symptoms of Monkeypox, how can Monkeypox be prevented and many others.

Why is it called Monkeypox?

The term "Monkeypox" was coined in 1958 after the first case was discovered in monkeys used for research. However, as per the scientists and the evidence that has emerged, monkeys are not the major disease carriers. Monkeypox is typically transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected animal or contact with the blood, body fluids, or fur of an infected animal.

What are the symptoms of Monkeypox?

Monkeypox infection normally lasts around 1-2 weeks after the onset of symptoms, but it can last up to three weeks. It is characterized by symptoms such as fever, severe headache, swollen lymph nodes, back pain, muscle aches, and fatigue, which initially resemble smallpox. Furthermore, skin eruptions usually begin within 1-3 days of the onset of fever. The rash majorly occurs on the face and extremities rather than the throat. It primarily affects the face, palms, and soles of the feet.

Are smallpox and Monkeypox the same?

Monkeypox symptoms are similar to Smallpox symptoms, and both are caused by the same virus, orthodox. Monkeypox, on the other hand, is milder and self-limiting, with a cure time of about 21 days. Monkeypox causes enlargement of lymph nodes or glands in the body, which helps us distinguish between the two.

How is Monkeypox transmitted?

The Monkeypox virus is spread through the bite of an infected animal or contact with its blood, body fluids, or fur. You can contact Monkeypox if you use clothes or the bed of an infected person. Sneezing and coughing can also spread the virus. According to some health officials and experts, the infection can be transmitted through sexual contact as well.

Can anyone die from Monkeypox?

Usually, Monkeypox symptoms are mild and go away on their own after a few weeks, but in some people, it can cause severe medical complications and can also be fatal, especially in newborns and people with underlying diseases. You should seek medical attention immediately if you experience any symptoms mentioned above.

Monkeypox Prevention & Treatment:

Researchers have to say that currently, there is no specific treatment for Monkeypox infection but outbreaks can be controlled with the help of vaccines available for smallpox because the virus that causes Monkeypox is closely linked to the virus that causes smallpox. It has been seen that the vaccine used for smallpox vaccine provides about 85 % prevention against Monkeypox disease.

This disease is mild and self-limiting in nature. It goes away in 2-3 weeks. In the majority of cases, symptomatic treatment is required. Preventive measures include avoiding skin-to-skin or close contact with anyone who has symptoms, avoiding unprotected sex, washing hands with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand rub, and following respiratory etiquette.

Monkeypox in India:

No cases have been reported in India so far but according to ICMR and some other research institutes; we cannot relax and put down our guards as this Monkeypox virus is registering its presence also in non-endemic countries. ICMR scientists have advised to look out for any unusual symptoms like rashes; large lymph nodes, high fever, and body ache, particularly for people with a travel history from infected countries. The government of India has directed airport and port authorities to be extra cautious and thoroughly screen international passengers arriving in India.

Also, Read: Will COVID-19 4th Wave hit India?