What is Monkeypox (Mpox)?

About Monkeypox (Mpox):

• It is a viral zoonotic disease caused by the monkeypox virus.
• This virus is part of the same family as the virus that causes smallpox. 
• The first human case of mpox was recorded in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
• Despite being named “monkeypox” originally, the source of the disease remains unknown. 
• There are two known types (clades) of mpox virus — one that originated in Central Africa (Clade I) and one that originated in West Africa (Clade II). 
• It’s found mostly in areas of Africa but has been seen in other regions of the world.
• Symptoms: Common symptoms of mpox are a skin rash or mucosal lesions, which can last 2–4 weeks accompanied by fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, low energy, and swollen lymph nodes.
• The mortality rate of mpox ranges from 0-11% in outbreaks, with young children being the most affected.
• Transmission:
  • Mpox spreads when you come into contact with an animal or a person infected with the virus.
  • Human-to-human transmission of mpox occurs through direct contact with body fluids, lesions, prolonged face-to-face contact, including sexual contact, and indirect contact with contaminated materials. 
• Treatment:
  • There are no specific treatmentsfor Mpox virus infection. 
  • Early and supportive care is important to help manage symptoms and avoid further problems.