What is the Monkeypox Virus Declared an Emergency by the World Health Organization?

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What is the Monkeypox?

The Monkeypox virus, once a relatively obscure disease, has recently caught global attention after the World Health Organization (WHO) declared it a public health emergency. This declaration highlights the urgency of addressing the spread of the virus, which has caused outbreaks in various countries. In this blog, we will explore what the Monkeypox virus is, its symptoms, how it spreads, and the global response to this emerging threat.

Understanding the Monkeypox Virus

Monkeypox is a viral zoonotic disease, meaning it can be transmitted from animals to humans. It is caused by the Monkeypox virus, which belongs to the same family of viruses as the variola virus, the cause of smallpox.

Origins: Monkeypox was first discovered in 1958 when two outbreaks of a pox-like disease occurred in monkeys kept for research. The first human case was recorded in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Types of Monkeypox: There are two genetic clades of the Monkeypox virus: the Central African (Congo Basin) clade and the West African clade. The Congo Basin clade has historically been more virulent and transmissible, but recent outbreaks have involved the West African clade.

Symptoms of Monkeypox

The symptoms of Monkeypox are similar to those of smallpox, though generally less severe.

Incubation Period: The incubation period typically ranges from 6 to 13 days, but it can vary from 5 to 21 days.

Initial Symptoms: Early symptoms include fever, headache, muscle aches, backache, swollen lymph nodes, chills, and exhaustion.

Rash Development: A few days after the onset of fever, a rash develops, often starting on the face before spreading to other parts of the body. The rash progresses through several stages—macules, papules, vesicles, pustules—before eventually forming scabs and falling off.

Severity: While Monkeypox is usually self-limiting, lasting 2 to 4 weeks, severe cases can occur, especially in children, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems.

Transmission of the Monkeypox Virus

Monkeypox spreads through close contact with an infected person or animal, or with material contaminated with the virus.

Animal-to-Human Transmission: Transmission from animals to humans can occur through bites, scratches, or direct contact with the blood, body fluids, or rash material of infected animals. Certain species of rodents and primates are thought to harbor the virus.

Human-to-Human Transmission: Human-to-human transmission primarily occurs through respiratory droplets, direct contact with body fluids, or contact with virus-contaminated objects such as bedding. The risk of transmission increases with prolonged face-to-face contact.

Outbreaks: While Monkeypox has been mostly confined to Central and West Africa, recent outbreaks have seen cases in non-endemic countries, raising concerns about wider spread.

Global Response and WHO’s Emergency Declaration

The global response to the Monkeypox outbreak has been swift, with health organizations and governments working together to contain the virus.

WHO Emergency Declaration: In July 2022, the WHO declared Monkeypox a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). This designation is reserved for events that pose a risk to multiple countries and require a coordinated international response.

Vaccination and Treatment: Vaccination against smallpox has been found to be about 85% effective in preventing Monkeypox. Countries are now considering the use of smallpox vaccines to control Monkeypox outbreaks. Antiviral treatments and supportive care are also being explored.

Public Awareness and Education: Raising public awareness about the symptoms, transmission, and prevention of Monkeypox is crucial in curbing its spread. Governments and health agencies are disseminating information and guidelines to help people protect themselves and others.

Staying Informed and Protected

The emergence of Monkeypox as a global health threat underscores the importance of vigilance and preparedness in combating infectious diseases. While the situation is serious, understanding the virus, its transmission, and the steps being taken to control it can help reduce the spread and impact of Monkeypox. Public health measures, international cooperation, and informed communities are key to overcoming this new challenge.

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