Could you please explain what Monkey Pox is?

In the recent times, like in May 2022, an outbreak of Monkeypox has been reported in the USA, United Kingdom, Spain, Portugal, Italy, Sweden, Australia, and Canada. Monkeypox is a rare viral infection typically found in Central and West Africa. It can spread from animals to humans and between humans.

Monkeypox is a viral zoonotic disease that primarily occurs in tropical rainforest areas of Central and West Africa. First identified in the 1970s, it typically presents with symptoms such as fever, rash, and swollen lymph nodes, sometimes leading to various medical complications. The disease usually resolves within 2 to 4 weeks, with a case fatality rate ranging from 1% to 10%. The virus can enter the body through broken skin, the respiratory tract, or mucous membranes (eyes, nose, or mouth).

Transmission of Monkeypox can occur from animals to humans through bites or scratches, bushmeat preparation, direct contact with body fluids or lesion material, or indirect contact with contaminated bedding. Human-to-human transmission primarily happens through large respiratory droplets during prolonged close contact. It can also occur through direct contact with infected body fluids or lesion material, as well as indirect contact with contaminated clothing or linens.

Clinical presentation includes fever, rash, and swollen lymph nodes, resembling symptoms of Smallpox, although Monkeypox is less contagious and causes less severe illness. The incubation period ranges from 7 to 14 days, with the infected person being typically non-contagious during this time. However, transmission can occur from 1 to 2 days before rash onset until all scabs have fallen off.

As of May 20, 2022, cases of Monkeypox have been reported in the United Kingdom, USA, Europe, Australia, and Canada, with no reported deaths. Although Monkeypox has not been reported in India, the possibility of occurrence cannot be ruled out. The reported cases globally are due to local transmission and travel to affected African countries.

In response to the potential threat, the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) and Ministry of Health & Family Welfare (MoHFW) have outlined public health recommendations, including heightened suspicion in individuals presenting with unexplained rashes, recent travel to affected countries, or contact with confirmed or suspected Monkeypox cases. Suspected cases are to be isolated in designated healthcare facilities, reported to the District Surveillance Officer, and tested at the National Institute of Virology (NIV), Pune. Contact tracing and infection control measures are also crucial in case of a positive diagnosis.

Source: Interim advisory from the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), India.for more information visit medlinkjobs.com(MedLink Jobs)

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