Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a rare viral disease that has recently gained international attention due to outbreaks in various parts of the world. Although it shares some similarities with smallpox, mpox is generally less severe.
1. What is Mpox?
Mpox is a zoonotic disease, meaning it can be transmitted from animals to humans. It is caused by the mpox virus, a member of the Orthopoxvirus genus, which also includes smallpox (variola virus) and cowpox viruses. Mpox was first identified in 1958 among monkeys kept for research, hence the name “monkeypox.” However, it is important to note that the disease is not exclusive to monkeys and is more commonly found in rodents
2. Origins and Historical Context
Mpox was first detected in humans in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), during a period when efforts were being made to eradicate smallpox. Since then, the disease has been primarily reported in Central and West African countries, particularly in regions close to tropical rainforests. Outbreaks outside Africa were rare until recent years when cases began to emerge in countries where the virus is not typically found.
3. Symptoms of Mpox
The symptoms of mpox are similar to, but milder than, those of smallpox. The incubation period (time from infection to symptoms) is usually 7-14 days but can range from 5-21 days. The disease typically progresses through the following stages:-
- Initial Symptoms: The disease begins with fever, headache, muscle aches, backache, and swollen lymph nodes (lymphadenopathy), which is a distinguishing feature from smallpox. Chills and exhaustion are also common.
- Rash Development: Within 1-3 days after the onset of fever, a rash develops, often starting on the face before spreading to other parts of the body, including the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. The rash evolves from macules (flat, discolored lesions) to papules (raised bumps), vesicles (fluid-filled blisters), pustules (pus-filled lesions), and finally crusts that dry up and fall off.
- Duration: The illness typically lasts for 2-4 weeks. In severe cases, complications can arise, including secondary bacterial infections, respiratory distress, and in some cases, death.
4. Transmission of Mpox
Mpox spreads in several ways, primarily through:-
- Animal-to-Human Transmiss1ion: This occurs through direct contact with the blood, bodily fluids, or cutaneous or mucosal lesions of infected animals. In Africa, contact with infected monkeys, Gambian pouched rats, and other rodents can lead to infection. Eating undercooked meat from infected animals is another risk factor.
- Human-to-Human Transmission: Human-to-human transmission occurs through close contact with respiratory secretions, skin lesions of an infected person, or recently contaminated objects. The virus can also spread via respiratory droplets in prolonged face-to-face contact. In some cases, mpox has been reported to spread through intimate physical contact.
- Fomites: Contaminated items, such as bedding or clothing, can also serve as a source of transmission.
5. Diagnosis of Mpox
Diagnosing mpox involves clinical evaluation and laboratory testing. The disease can be confirmed by testing the DNA of the virus found in a patient’s lesion fluid, blood, or other samples. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is the preferred laboratory test due to its accuracy. It’s crucial to differentiate mpox from other rash-causing illnesses, such as chickenpox, measles, bacterial skin infections, scabies, syphilis, and medication-associated allergies.
6. Treatment and Management
Currently, there is no specific treatment approved for mpox. However, the smallpox vaccine, antiviral drugs, and vaccinia immune globulin (VIG) can be used to control outbreaks. The smallpox vaccine has been found to be about 85% effective in preventing mpox. Supportive care and symptomatic treatment are the primary approaches to managing the disease, including hydration, fever management, and treating any secondary infections.
7. Prevention Strategies
Preventing mpox involves several strategies:-
- Vaccination: People who have been vaccinated against smallpox may have some protection against mpox. However, routine smallpox vaccination stopped after the disease was eradicated, which has led to a growing population of people susceptible to mpox. Some countries have begun using smallpox vaccines to protect high-risk groups during mpox outbreaks.
- Avoiding Contact: Avoiding contact with animals that could harbor the virus, especially in regions where mpox is endemic, is crucial. This includes not handling sick or dead animals and avoiding consuming bushmeat.
- Hygiene Practices: Regular hand washing with soap and water or using alcohol-based hand sanitizers can reduce the risk of infection. In healthcare settings, standard infection control measures, such as wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) and isolating infected patients, are essential.
- Travel Precautions: For people traveling to areas with mpox outbreaks, it’s important to avoid contact with animals and to follow local health guidelines.
8. Global Impact and Recent Outbreaks
While mpox was historically confined to Africa, recent years have seen a rise in cases in non-endemic regions. The most notable outbreak occurred in 2022 when multiple cases were reported across Europe, North America, and other continents. This outbreak highlighted the need for global vigilance and strengthened surveillance systems.
9. The Importance of Public Awareness and Education
Raising public awareness about mpox is critical in controlling its spread. Understanding the symptoms, transmission routes, and prevention methods can help individuals protect themselves and their communities. Public health authorities must continue to provide accurate and timely information, especially in regions where the disease is not commonly found.
Mpox is a disease that, while similar to smallpox, poses different challenges in terms of transmission and prevention. With recent outbreaks in non-endemic regions, it is more important than ever to stay informed and vigilant. By understanding mpox, we can better protect ourselves and contribute to the global effort to prevent further spread of the virus.As research continues and more is learned about the virus, it is essential to follow updates from health authorities and adhere to recommended prevention strategies. In a world where diseases can cross borders with ease, global cooperation and public awareness are key to mitigating the impact of emerging infectious diseases like mpox.