Monkeypox… Is this the next world pandemic?

Although developed countries were able to overcome Corona virus to some extend still most of the third world countries are suffering from it. These days “Monkeypox” is a very famous health topic. What is this Monkeypox? Will this be the next world pandemic?

Monkeypox is not a new disease to the world. Monkeypox cases have typically been reported from Western and Central African countries. Recently this has become a topic in the health sector with the confirmed cases have been identified in many developed countries like Australia, Canada, France, Belgium, Italy, Netherlands, Germany, Sweden, Portugal, Spain, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

Monkeypox is not a deadly and contagious disease like Covid19. But if it rapidly spreads in third world countries with poor health systems it will be a big health issue to the whole world.

What is Monkeypox?

Monkeypox is an infectious disease. The cause of the disease is the Monkeypox virus. The disease is not deadly and infection rate is also low. Although it is not severe for many, individuals like children, pregnant mothers and people who have weak immune system due to various health conditions may be vulnerable. Monkeypox virus was first identified in 1958. The first case in humans were found in 1970 in Congo. The virus got its name as “Monkeypox” since the virus was first identified in monkeys.

Symptoms of Monkeypox disease

The basic symptoms of Monkeypox are fever, headache, muscle pain, swollen lymph nodes and tiredness. After these symptoms it will appear a rash all over the body with blisters and crusts over them. These blisters appear first on the face before appearing on the feet and hands. Other than that, these blisters may appear on the eyes, inside of the mouth and even genital areas. A Monkeypox patient will have to suffer around 2-4 weeks. This disease is very similar to chickenpox.

Transmission of the virus

Human to human transmission happens due to close contacts of an infected person, body fluids, respiratory droplets, and contaminated materials such as bedding, towels and clothes. Animal to human transmission occurs with biting, scratching or meat preparation and consuming infected meat.

Is there a vaccine for Monkeypox?

Monkeypox can cure on its own after 2-4 weeks. No specific vaccine for Monkeypox virus is not yet found. Currently the smallpox vaccine is given for Monkeypox to prevent future outbreaks and it is 85% effective against the virus.

To prevent the virus, it is utmost important to maintain a good hygiene. If you are infected with the virus isolate from others until you get fully recovered. Make sure to use personal protective equipment (PPE) when caring for patients.