What is Monkey Pox - The outbreak in Pakistan

 

Monkeypox is a rare viral disease that can cause a range of symptoms in humans, including fever, rash, and painful lesions on the skin. The disease is caused by the monkeypox virus, which is similar to the human smallpox virus but less severe. Monkeypox was first discovered in 1958 when outbreaks of the disease occurred in monkeys kept for research in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and later in humans in the same region. Since then, the disease has been reported in other parts of Central and West Africa, and sporadic cases have also been reported in other regions of the world.

Transmission

Monkeypox is primarily a zoonotic disease, meaning it is transmitted from animals to humans. The virus is carried by animals such as monkeys, rodents, and squirrels, and can be transmitted to humans through contact with the infected animal's bodily fluids, such as blood, saliva, or pus. Humans can also contract the disease by coming into contact with contaminated surfaces, such as bedding or clothing, that have been in contact with infected animals. Person-to-person transmission is also possible, but it is less common.

Symptoms

The symptoms of monkeypox are similar to those of smallpox, but less severe. The disease usually begins with flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle aches, and fatigue. After a few days, a rash appears, which progresses to raised bumps that fill with fluid and then crust over. The rash usually appears on the face and then spreads to other parts of the body, including the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. The lesions can be painful and may take several weeks to heal. In severe cases, the disease can cause complications such as pneumonia, respiratory failure, and death.

Treatment

There is no specific treatment for monkeypox, and the disease is usually managed symptomatically. Antiviral drugs such as cidofovir and smallpox vaccine can be used to treat the disease, but their effectiveness is uncertain. Patients with severe symptoms may need to be hospitalized and treated with supportive therapy, such as oxygen therapy and intravenous fluids.

Prevention

Preventing the transmission of monkeypox involves taking precautions when handling animals that may be infected with the virus. People should avoid contact with sick or dead animals and wear protective clothing such as gloves and masks when handling animals or their products. In addition, people should practice good hand hygiene by washing their hands frequently with soap and water or using alcohol-based hand sanitizers. Vaccination with the smallpox vaccine can also provide some protection against monkeypox, although the vaccine is no longer routinely given in many countries.

Conclusion

Monkeypox is a rare but potentially serious viral disease that can cause a range of symptoms in humans. The disease is primarily transmitted from animals to humans and can cause complications such as pneumonia and respiratory failure. There is no specific treatment for monkeypox, and prevention involves taking precautions when handling animals and practicing good hand hygiene. Although the disease is rare, it is important for people to be aware of its symptoms and to seek medical attention if they develop flu-like symptoms and a rash after coming into contact with animals.