The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the disease – named, monkeypox virus, as a global health emergency. The move comes after an outbreak of the disease in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), where it has killed more than 130 people. Monkeypox is a viral disease that is similar to smallpox, but it is usually less severe. It is found in monkeys and other animals, and can be spread to humans through contact with infected animals or humans.
The DRC outbreak is the largest outbreak of monkeypox virus ever recorded, and it is spreading quickly. There is no cure for the virus and no specific treatment, so it is essential to prevent its spread. The WHO is working with the DRC government to control the outbreak, but it is a difficult task.
What Is Monkeypox?
The disease – named monkeypox is a rare disease caused by infection with the monkeypox virus. The virus is part of the same family of viruses as the variola virus, which causes smallpox. It was discovered in 1958 when two outbreaks of a pox-like disease occurred in colonies of monkeys kept for researching.
The first outbreak occurred in Denmark, and the second in the United States. It is usually a mild disease, but it can be severe and sometimes fatal. There is no specific treatment for the virus, and there is no vaccine available for prevention.
What Are The Symptoms Of Monkeypox?
The symptoms of monkeypox virus are similar to smallpox symptoms, including fever, headache, muscle aches and backache, swollen lymph nodes, chills, exhaustion, and a rash that can look like pimples or blisters.
The rash usually appears on the face, inside the mouth, and on other parts of the body, like the hands, feet, chest, genitals, or anus. It is a severe illness that may be fatal in some cases. You should see a doctor immediately if you think you may have monkeypox virus.
How Is Monkeypox Spread?
It is most commonly spread through direct contact with an infected person’s infectious rash, scabs, or body fluids. Respiratory secretions during prolonged, face-to-face communication, or intimate physical connections, such as kissing, cuddling, or sex, can also spread the virus. Touching items (such as clothing or linens) that previously touched the infectious rash or body fluids can also spread the virus. Pregnant women can spread the virus to their
fetuses through the placenta.
The incubation period for monkeypox virus is typically 7-14 days but can range from 5-21 days. Symptoms usually begin with a fever, followed by the development of a rash. The rash usually starts on the face and spreads to other body parts. The rash typically goes through three stages:
- Small red bumps appear.
- The bumps fill with fluid and form blisters.
- The blisters scab over.
Other symptoms may include headache, muscle aches, exhaustion, and swollen lymph nodes.
How Serious Is Monkeypox?
Monkeypox virus is a serious viral infection that can cause severe illness in humans. Possible serious complications from the virus include secondary infections like Encephalitis, Sepsis, Bronchopneumonia, and Infection of the cornea with possible vision loss. It is a severe disease and should be treated promptly and aggressively. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent serious complications.
What Is The Treatment For Monkeypox?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) holds an expanded access protocol that allows for the use of stockpiled tecovirimat for the treatment of monkeypox during an outbreak. This medicine, Tecovirimat, is available as a pill or an injection.
This protocol allows for the use of tecovirimat to treat people exposed to monkeypox and at risk for developing the disease. Treatment with tecovirimat may help to prevent or lessen the severity of monkeypox.
How Can Monkeypox Be Prevented?
Monkeypox virus is a severe viral illness that can be fatal in humans. The best way to prevent from the virus, is to avoid close, skin-to-skin contact with people with a rash that looks like monkeypox. It is dangerous to touch the rash or scabs of a person with monkeypox. Kissing, hugging, cuddling or having sex with someone with monkeypox is also dangerous. Do not share eating utensils or cups with a person infected with a monkeypox virus. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you have been exposed to the virus.
What Is The WHO Doing To Control The Outbreak?
The WHO is doing everything in its power to control the outbreak. It provides vaccines and works with countries to ensure they have the necessary resources to contain the virus. It also provides information to the public about how to protect themselves from the virus.
What Challenges Does The WHO Face In Controlling The Outbreak?
The WHO is facing several challenges in controlling the monkeypox outbreak. One challenge is the lack of clinical data on the disease. There is no known cure for it, which is challenging to diagnose. There is also a lack of information on the transmission of the disease. Another challenge is the lack of vaccination against the virus. The only available vaccine is ineffective in preventing the disease—the WHO is also working to control the spread of the disease by identifying and isolating cases.
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