The threat of monkeypox is increasing rapidly around the world. In just two weeks, the number of monkeypox cases in 12 countries has reached 100. Cases may increase rapidly even further. However, not a single death has been reported from this disease so far. The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned all countries about this virus.
As of 21 May 2022, there have been 92 confirmed cases of monkeypox in the WHO and 28 suspected cases are under investigation. Cases of monkeypox have been reported from Australia, Belgium, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, the United Kingdom and the United States. Meanwhile, Belgium has become the first country to mandate a 21-day monkeypox quarantine period for all confirmed cases.
What is monkeypox: Monkeypox is an orthopoxvirus that is similar to smallpox. Monkeypox is mostly spread from animals to humans. It is a viral infection that was first detected in a captive monkey in 1958. Monkeypox infection was first confirmed in humans in 1970.
Symptoms of monkeypox: Its initial symptoms are flu-like. These include fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, shivering, fatigue. After this, pus-filled pimples start appearing on the face, which spread to other parts of the body as well and after a few days dry up and fall off. According to the WHO, the symptoms of monkeypox can appear from the 5th day to the 21st day of infection.
Monkeypox can be spread through contact with infected animals or body fluids (sneeze, saliva) from infected humans. The estimated rate of spread of this virus is 3.3 to 30 percent. Monkeypox is usually spread through person-to-person contact. This virus can be inhaled through any surface, bedding, clothing or breath. The virus is also spread through skin-to-skin contact.
Treatment of monkeypox: People exposed to this virus are often given a few doses of smallpox vaccines. Apart from this, scientists are also engaged in making antiviral drugs. The European Center for Disease Prevention and Control recommends isolating all patients with monkeypox and getting the smallpox vaccine.
What is India’s preparation: The central government’s concern regarding monkeypox has also increased. In view of the rapidly spreading infection, an alert has been issued to the National Center for Disease Control (NCDC) and the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). The Health Ministry has directed the officials of airports and seaports to immediately isolate any sick travelers who have returned after traveling to monkeypox affected countries and send samples to the National Institute of Virology (NIV), Pune for testing.