What is monkeypox ? How it’s Transmitting and Symptoms of it.

Monkeypox is a viral zoonotic disease, meaning it is transmitted from animals to humans.

It is caused by the monkeypox virus, which is part of the Orthopoxvirus genus, the same group of viruses that includes the variola virus (which causes smallpox). 

Although monkeypox is less severe than smallpox, it can still cause serious illness.

Key Facts about Monkeypox:

Origins and History:

1. Monkeypox was first identified in 1958 in laboratory monkeys, which is how it got its name, though the natural reservoir is thought to be rodents.

 2. The first human case was recorded in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

Monkeypox Transmission:

Animal-to-Human Transmission:

   1. Direct Contact: Monkeypox can spread to humans through direct contact with the blood, bodily fluids, or skin/mucosal lesions of infected animals, such as rodents, primates, and other wild animals.

   2. Eating Undercooked Meat: Consuming meat from infected animals, especially if undercooked, can also be a source of transmission.

Human-to-Human Transmission:

   1. Close Contact: The virus spreads between people through direct contact with the rash, sores, or body fluids of an infected person.

   2. Respiratory Droplets: It can spread via respiratory droplets during prolonged face-to-face contact.

   3. Contaminated Objects: Touching objects like clothing, bedding, or towels that have been in contact with an infected person can also result in transmission.

   4. Mother-to-Fetus: Pregnant women can transmit the virus to their fetus through the placenta.

Monkeypox Symptoms:

1. Fever: The initial symptom, often accompanied by chills.

2. Headache: Severe and persistent headaches.

3. Muscle Aches: Pain in muscles, often along with backaches.

4. Swollen Lymph Nodes: Enlarged lymph nodes, particularly in the neck, groin, or armpits.

5. Fatigue: A general feeling of exhaustion.

6. Rash: A rash that starts as flat red spots and progresses to raised bumps, blisters, and pustules, typically starting on the face and spreading to other parts of the body.

7. Lesions: The rash develops into pus-filled lesions that eventually scab over and fall off.

Prevention of Monkeypox:

1. Avoid Contact with Infected Animals: Refrain from touching or eating wild animals, particularly in regions where monkeypox is prevalent.

2. Practice Good Hygiene: Wash hands frequently with soap and water or use hand sanitizer, especially after contact with animals or potentially contaminated materials.

3. Avoid Close Contact with Infected Individuals: Do not touch the rash, body fluids, or clothing/bedding of an infected person.

4. Use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Healthcare workers and caregivers should wear gloves, masks, and protective clothing when caring for an infected person.

5. Isolation: Infected individuals should be isolated from others until all lesions have healed and scabs have fallen off.

6. Vaccination: Smallpox vaccines may provide protection against monkeypox. Consider vaccination if you’re at high risk or in an area with an outbreak.

7. Disinfection: Regularly clean and disinfect surfaces, objects, and fabrics that might be contaminated.

8. Be Cautious with Food: Avoid consuming undercooked meat, especially in areas where monkeypox is endemic.