Mpox, previously known as monkeypox, is a viral zoonotic disease caused by the mpox virus. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), it primarily occurs in tropical rainforest areas of Central and West Africa and is occasionally detected in other regions. The disease was renamed from "monkeypox" to "mpox" to avoid stigma and misleading associations.
Symptoms
Mpox typically presents with a fever, rash and swollen lymph nodes and may lead to a range of medical complications. The rash often starts on the face and spreads to other parts of the body.
Transmission
The virus can spread from animals to humans through direct contact with the blood, bodily fluids, or cutaneous or mucosal lesions of infected animals. Human-to-human transmission can occur through respiratory droplets, direct contact with infected bodily fluids, or lesions, and indirectly through contaminated materials.
Prevention
Preventive measures include avoiding contact with animals that could harbour the virus, practicing good hygiene and using protective equipment when caring for infected individuals.
Treatment and Vaccination
There is no specific treatment for mpox, but smallpox vaccines have been found to provide some protection against mpox. Supportive care is often provided to manage symptoms.
Recent Outbreaks
Mpox has been reported in countries outside of Africa due to international travel or imported animals. The WHO has been monitoring these outbreaks closely and providing guidance on control measures.
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