Mpox Explained: Everything You Need to Know About This Viral Threat
Mpox, once a relatively obscure viral infection, has recently drawn global attention. With cases surfacing across different parts of the world, including India, understanding how this virus spreads and how to protect yourself is crucial. In this guide, we’ll break down Mpox, its symptoms, how it spreads, and the preventive measures you can take to stay safe.
What Is Mpox?
Mpox is a viral illness caused by the monkeypox virus, belonging to the Orthopoxvirus family. Originally found in wild animals, particularly in Central and West Africa, Mpox can spread to humans through close contact with infected animals or surfaces. In 2022, the World Health Organization (WHO) decided to use the term “Mpox” to replace “Monkeypox” to remove stigma around the disease.
Although Mpox might sound new to many, the virus has been known for decades, with outbreaks occurring sporadically. However, recent cases have highlighted its potential to spread from human to human, primarily through close, direct contact.
Recognizing Early Symptoms
The hallmark symptom of Mpox is a distinctive rash that can appear on various parts of the body, including the hands, face, and genitals. The rash often looks like small pimples or blisters and progresses through several stages, eventually scabbing over before healing.
Along with the rash, other symptoms include:
Fever
Swollen lymph nodes
Exhaustion
Muscle aches
Headache
Respiratory symptoms like a sore throat or cough
The incubation period for Mpox ranges from 3 to 17 days, meaning a person can be infected without showing any symptoms for quite some time. If you or someone you know develops any of these symptoms, especially the rash, it’s important to seek medical advice immediately.
How Does Mpox Spread?
Mpox is primarily spread through direct, close contact with an infected person. This can include skin-to-skin contact, such as touching, sexual activity, or even face-to-face interactions where respiratory droplets can be exchanged. The virus can also survive on contaminated surfaces like bedding and clothing, further increasing the risk of transmission.
During the 2022 outbreak, sexual contact was identified as a significant transmission route. A person with Mpox remains contagious until all the lesions have healed and new skin has formed, a process that can take 2-4 weeks.
In environments where wild animals carry the virus, such as in Central and West Africa, people can also become infected through direct contact with infected animals, particularly rodents and primates.
Preventive Measures: Protecting Yourself from Mpox
Prevention is key in stopping the spread of Mpox. Here are some essential steps you can take:
Get Vaccinated: If you’re at risk of exposure, getting vaccinated is your best line of defence.
Limit Close Contact: If you’re attending events where skin-to-skin contact is likely (like parties or clubs), try to avoid contact with anyone showing signs of a rash or lesions.
Avoid Contaminated Items: Mpox can spread through items like bedding, towels, or utensils used by an infected person. Avoid handling these items if someone in your home is infected.
Wash Your Hands: Regular handwashing with soap or using hand sanitiser can significantly reduce the risk of contracting the virus. Good hygiene is always a powerful tool in preventing viral infections.
Disinfect Surfaces: If you suspect someone in your environment has Mpox, make sure to disinfect frequently touched surfaces, as the virus can survive on these for extended periods.
How Is Mpox Treated?
While there’s no specific treatment approved for Mpox, most people recover without the need for medical intervention. Treatment focuses on symptom management and pain relief. People with severe cases or weakened immune systems may need more intensive care. For now, supportive care, such as hydration and managing fever or pain, is the primary approach.
If you suspect that you or someone you know has Mpox, it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider for guidance on symptom management and isolation protocols.
Mpox in India: A Closer Look
India has seen minimal Mpox cases, with only one confirmed case in Hisar, Haryana, and no reported deaths so far. However, given the global nature of the virus’s spread, vigilance remains crucial. The Indian healthcare system has been proactive in identifying potential cases and ensuring that the virus doesn’t gain a strong foothold.
Preventive measures, including public awareness campaigns and a focus on hygiene and vaccination, are already in place, but continued attention is needed to keep the virus at bay.
Conclusion
Mpox may not be as widespread in India as it is in other parts of the world, but being informed and prepared can help curb its spread. Understanding the symptoms, how the virus is transmitted, and the preventive steps you can take will keep you and your community safe. Stay vigilant, follow hygiene practices, and seek medical advice if you notice any signs of the virus. Prevention begins with knowledge.
Source:
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/mpox
https://www.cdc.gov/poxvirus/mpox/prevention/protect-yourself.html
WHO and partners establish an access and allocation mechanism for mpox vaccines, treatments, tests