Monkeypox (Mpox): Origin, Symptoms, Prevention, and Treatment

Let's discuss about a off topic today. Mpox, also known as Monkeypox, is a serious health concern that has been around for about 70 years, caused by the Mpox virus. Initially, the virus spread from animals to humans; now, it has jumped to human-to-human transmission. The Mpox virus is part of the same family as smallpox and cowpox, which should give you a sense of its seriousness.

What Are the Symptoms of Mpox?

When Mpox strikes, it often starts with symptoms like fever, headaches, swollen lymph nodes, back pain, and muscle aches. These are the early warning signs of a significant health concern. But once the fever kicks in, you’ll likely develop a rash. It usually starts on the face, then spreads to other body parts—hands, feet, and chest. These rashes can be intensely itchy or even painful. They go through stages, eventually scabbing over and falling off, sometimes leaving scars as a reminder.

While the infection usually clears up on its own within two to three weeks, Mpox remains a significant health concern for young children and other vulnerable groups. In severe cases, the lesions can appear on the face, eyes, and genital areas, which adds another layer of concern.?

Recently, the ongoing outbreak has shown rashes appearing on or near the genitals or anus, and it’s been a real point of focus for health professionals.

In Which Countries Has Mpox Spread?

Mpox has its roots in remote villages of Central and West Africa , particularly in tropical rainforest regions like the Congo. Every year, thousands are infected, and unfortunately, hundreds don’t survive, with children under 15 being the most affected by this health concern. However, Mpox is no longer just an African issue. The virus has spread to nearly 100 countries , including parts of Asia and Africa where it wasn’t seen before, making it a global health concern.

What’s particularly concerning is the emergence of two main types of Mpox: Clade 1 and Clade 2.

Clade 1 is generally more severe and has caused sporadic outbreaks in Congo for decades. Now, a newer and more severe strain, Clade 1b, has emerged, infecting many people over the last year. This strain may spread more easily and cause more serious illness, but there’s still a lot we don’t know.

As of mid-2024, the Africa CDC reported over 14,500 infections and more than 450 deaths. That’s a 160% increase in infections and a 19% increase in deaths compared to the previous year. The rise in cases and the spread to new regions have made Mpox a global health concern.

How Does Mpox Spread?

Mpox spreads through close contact—be it sexual activity, direct touch, or even just breathing near an infected person. The virus can enter your body through broken skin, the respiratory tract, or mucous membranes like your eyes, nose, or mouth. It can also spread through contaminated items like bedding, clothing, or towels.

Animals also play a role in this health concern. Infected monkeys, rats, or squirrels can transmit the virus to humans. Scientists are still figuring out which species naturally harbor the virus, but we know several, like striped squirrels and tree squirrels, are carriers.

In the 2022 global outbreak, most cases were linked to sexual contact.

The current outbreak in Congo follows a similar pattern, driven by close contact and sexual relationships. And it’s not just adults at risk—Mpox has also affected young children and other vulnerable groups.

Death Rate

Historically, Mpox has had a death rate ranging from 0% to 11%. But with the current outbreak, researchers estimate the death rate to be around 0.03% . While that might seem low, it’s still a significant threat, especially in regions with limited healthcare access.

Who Is Most at Risk?

Anyone in close contact with an infected person is at risk—this includes healthcare workers, family members, and sexual partners. Children might be particularly vulnerable due to their developing immune systems and, in some regions, malnutrition. They’re also at higher risk because they didn’t receive the smallpox vaccine, which health authorities discontinued over 40 years ago.

Smallpox vaccination might provide some protection for older adults. Pregnant women and those with weakened immune systems are also more susceptible to severe illness.

To minimize risk, avoid close contact with infected individuals, practice good hygiene, and isolate anyone infected until all their lesions have healed.

The WHO even advises using condoms during sexual activity for up to 12 weeks after recovering from Mpox as a precaution.

Treatment

Though there's no specific treatment for Mpox, doctors may recommend antiviral drugs like Tecovirimat (TPOXX) for those with weakened immune systems or at high risk of severe illness, adding another layer to this health concern.

Is There a Vaccine for Mpox?

Yes, there is. The smallpox vaccine is about 85% effective in preventing Mpox . The Jynneos vaccine, developed by Bavarian Nordic, is currently the only FDA-approved vaccine in the U.S. for preventing Mpox. It’s a crucial defense against this growing health concern, especially for those exposed to the virus.

The CDC recommends vaccination within four days of exposure to help prevent the disease.

As of August 2024, four vaccines are being used to prevent Mpox . These were originally developed to fight smallpox:

• MVA-BN (marketed as Jynneos, Imvamune, or Imvanex): Licensed for use against Mpox in Europe, the US, and Canada.
• LC16: Licensed for use in Japan.
• OrthopoxVac: Licensed for use in Russia.
• ACAM2000: Available in the U.S. but not commonly used due to higher risks.

The U.S. has approved the MVA-BN vaccine for people at high risk of Mpox exposure or those recently exposed. Health authorities recommend it for individuals investigating Mpox outbreaks, caring for infected people or animals, or those exposed through close contact.

Let's all continue to be alert. Mpox is something we need to take seriously, but with the right precautions, we can protect ourselves and those around us. If Mpox is spreading in your area, stay informed, follow the guidelines, and get vaccinated if you're at risk.

Remember, the health and safety of our communities depend on each of us doing our part. Stay safe, look out for one another, and together, we can overcome this health concern.