Monkeypox is a rare infectious disease caused by the Monkeypox virus (MPXV), which belongs to the Orthopoxvirus genus and the Poxviridae family. Although similar to smallpox, monkeypox tends to produce milder symptoms and is primarily transmitted from animals to humans.
First discovered in 1958 during outbreaks in captive monkeys in Denmark, monkeypox has since been reported in several countries, often linked to international travel or animal importation. With symptoms resembling those of chickenpox but with distinct characteristics, understanding monkeypox is crucial for effective prevention and management.
What is Monkeypox?
Monkeypox is a rare disease that was first discovered in 1958 in Denmark when two outbreaks of a smallpox-like illness occurred in colonies of monkeys kept for research. Hence, the disease was named “monkeypox.” The first human case of monkeypox was identified in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Central Africa, during an intensive period of smallpox eradication efforts.
Since then, monkeypox has been reported in people in several Central African countries and beyond, often linked to international travel or the importation of animals. Cases have been documented in countries such as the United States, Israel, Singapore, and the United Kingdom.
Symptoms of Monkeypox
The symptoms of monkeypox are similar to those of chickenpox, but with some distinct differences. One key feature of monkeypox is the swelling of lymph nodes, which is not typical of chickenpox.
The symptoms of monkeypox can be categorized into two phases: the prodromal phase (initial phase) and the eruption phase.
1. Prodromal Phase
The prodromal phase marks the onset of monkeypox symptoms and includes:
- Fever: Often the first symptom to appear.
- Headache: Sometimes severe and persistent.
- Muscle aches: General discomfort and pain in muscles.
- Back pain: A common symptom in those infected.
- Swollen lymph nodes: Notably in the neck, armpits, or groin, this swelling (lymphadenopathy) differentiates monkeypox from other similar viral infections.
- Chills: Accompanied by shivering and feeling cold.
- Fatigue: A general feeling of tiredness and weakness.
2. Eruption Phase
The eruption phase begins 1-3 days (sometimes longer) after the prodromal phase. During this phase, a rash or lesions appear on the skin. This typically starts on the face and gradually spreads to other parts of the body.
The rash progresses through several stages:
- Maculopapular stage: Red spots that are flat and raised.
- Vesicular stage: Fluid-filled blisters develop.
- Pustular stage: The blisters fill with pus.
- Crusting stage: The lesions harden and eventually fall off.
The symptoms of monkeypox generally last for 2-4 weeks, during which the lesions heal and scab over.
Transmission of Monkeypox
Monkeypox primarily spreads from animals to humans, particularly through infected monkeys and rodents like rats. However, the virus can also spread through close contact between humans, especially through skin-to-skin contact with individuals who have lesions caused by the virus.
The incubation period for the virus (the time from infection to the onset of symptoms) typically ranges from 6-16 days but can extend from 5-21 days.
Some of the primary ways the virus spreads include:
- Direct contact with an infected animal: This can occur through scratches or bites from the animal.
- Consumption of infected wild animal meat: Eating improperly cooked meat from infected animals can also transmit the virus.
- Contact with contaminated objects: Items such as bedding, clothing, or other materials that have come into contact with the virus can spread the infection.
- Human-to-human transmission: This occurs through direct contact with bodily fluids, lesions, or through indirect contact with lesion materials.
There have been misconceptions that monkeypox is spread through sexual contact, particularly among men who have sex with men (MSM). However, research has debunked this theory, confirming that monkeypox is not a sexually transmitted disease limited to any particular group. The virus can spread to anyone who has close contact with an infected person, including through sexual contact or sharing contaminated bedding.
Treatment and Prevention of Monkeypox
Monkeypox is a self-limiting disease, meaning that it often resolves on its own without specific treatment. However, in some cases, supportive care and treatment to relieve symptoms may be necessary.
A definitive diagnosis of monkeypox can be made through laboratory tests, particularly by examining samples from skin lesions. This helps distinguish monkeypox from other similar conditions like smallpox, chickenpox, measles, bacterial skin infections, scabies, syphilis, and drug-related allergies.
Preventive Measures
While monkeypox can resolve on its own, it is essential to take preventive measures to avoid infection, particularly in areas where the virus is known to circulate. Children are often more severely affected by monkeypox, due to their weaker immune systems, overall health status, and the severity of possible complications.
Here are some preventive steps to minimize the risk of infection:
- Avoid contact with animals: Especially wild animals, sick animals, or those found dead, particularly primates and rodents.
- Limit physical contact with infected individuals: Avoid direct contact with people who have monkeypox, and be cautious with items that may be contaminated, such as bedding and clothing.
- Cook meat thoroughly: Avoid consuming raw or undercooked meat, particularly from wild animals.
- Practice good hygiene: Regularly wash your hands with soap and water, or use alcohol-based hand sanitizer, especially after contact with potentially infected animals or individuals.
- Use personal protective equipment (PPE): When caring for someone with monkeypox, wearing PPE can help prevent the spread of the virus.
By following these precautions, individuals can reduce their risk of contracting monkeypox and help prevent the spread of this virus.
