Last Updated on April 24, 2023 by Nurse Vicky
Latest Monkey Pox News: Updates and Developments
Monkeypox is a viral disease that affects both humans and animals. It was first discovered in 1958 when an outbreak occurred in monkeys kept for research. In humans, the symptoms are similar to those of smallpox, but the disease is generally milder.
Since its discovery, there have been several outbreaks of monkeypox in different parts of the world. In this article, we will discuss the latest developments and updates regarding monkeypox.
What is Monkeypox?
Monkeypox is a viral disease that is caused by the Monkeypox virus. The virus is transmitted to humans through contact with infected animals, such as rodents, monkeys, and squirrels.
Human-to-human transmission can also occur through respiratory droplets or contact with the bodily fluids of an infected person.
The incubation period of the virus is usually 5-21 days, and symptoms may include fever, headache, muscle aches, and a rash.
Latest Developments in Monkeypox Recently, there have been reports of monkeypox outbreaks in several African countries, including Nigeria, Cameroon, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
In Nigeria, there have been over 200 suspected cases of monkeypox reported in several states, including Lagos, Bayelsa, and Rivers.
In Cameroon, there have been 16 confirmed cases of monkeypox reported in the country. In the Democratic Republic of Congo, there have been over 1,000 suspected cases of monkeypox reported since the beginning of the year.
Symptoms of Monkeypox The symptoms of monkeypox are similar to those of smallpox, but the disease is generally milder. The symptoms may include fever, headache, muscle aches, and a rash.
The rash usually begins on the face and then spreads to other parts of the body. The rash may evolve into fluid-filled blisters that eventually form scabs and fall off.
Diagnosis of Monkeypox The diagnosis of monkeypox is usually made based on clinical symptoms and laboratory tests.
The laboratory tests include viral culture, PCR, and serology. The viral culture is the most reliable method of diagnosis, but it may take several days to obtain results.
Treatment of Monkeypox There is no specific treatment for monkeypox, and the disease is usually self-limiting. Treatment is mainly supportive and includes antipyretics, analgesics, and antihistamines. Antiviral drugs such as cidofovir and the smallpox vaccine may be used in severe cases.
Prevention of Monkeypox The best way to prevent monkeypox is to avoid contact with infected animals and humans.
People who live in or travel to areas where monkeypox is endemic should take precautions such as washing their hands frequently, avoiding contact with sick people and animals, and wearing protective clothing.
FAQs
Is monkeypox contagious?
Yes, monkeypox is contagious and can be transmitted from person to person through respiratory droplets or contact with the bodily fluids of an infected person.
What is the mortality rate of monkeypox?
The mortality rate of monkeypox is usually low, ranging from 1% to 10%.
Can monkeypox be transmitted from animals to humans?
Yes, monkeypox can be transmitted from animals to humans, particularly through contact with infected rodents, monkeys, and squirrels.
Is there a vaccine for monkeypox?
Yes, there is a vaccine for monkeypox, but it is not widely available. The vaccine is mainly used by laboratory workers and people who are at high risk of exposure to the virus
What are the long-term effects of monkeypox?Â
Is there a cure for monkeypox?
There is no specific cure for monkeypox, and treatment is mainly supportive.
 Can you get Monkeypox twice?
It is believed that people who have had monkeypox develop immunity to the virus and are unlikely to get infected again.
 Can monkeypox be prevented?
Yes, monkeypox can be prevented by avoiding contact with infected animals and humans and taking precautions such as washing hands frequently and wearing protective clothing.
 How is monkeypox transmitted?
Monkeypox is transmitted through contact with infected animals, particularly rodents, monkeys, and squirrels. It can also be transmitted from person to person through respiratory droplets or contact with the bodily fluids of an infected person.
 Where is monkeypox most common?
Monkeypox is most common in Central and West Africa, but sporadic outbreaks have occurred in other parts of the world.
Conclusion
Monkeypox is a viral disease that affects both humans and animals. It is mainly transmitted through contact with infected animals and humans. The disease is generally milder than smallpox, but it can still cause severe illness in some cases.
There is no specific treatment for monkeypox, and the disease is usually self-limiting. Prevention is the best way to avoid getting infected with the virus.
People who live in or travel to areas where monkeypox is endemic should take precautions such as washing their hands frequently, avoiding contact with sick people and animals, and wearing protective clothing.
