Monkeypox Cases: then COVID-19 nationwide epidemic, Monkeypox– A new viral disease has wreaked havoc across the globe and across the globe. While India has 4 confirmed cases so far, around 14,533 infections have been reported from around 72 countries. Following the continued increase, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared a ‘public health emergency’ over monkeypox, after months of debate about sounding the alarm. The WHO defines PHEIC as “an extraordinary event that is determined to constitute a public health risk to other states through the international spread of disease and potentially requires a coordinated international response”.Also Read – Widespread testing for monkeypox outbreak, vaccines key: White House
How did monkeypox get its name?
Besides humans, monkeys can also contract the deadly virus, hence the name of the disease. Monkeypox was discovered in 1958 when two outbreaks of a pox-like disease occurred in colonies of monkeys kept for research. Scientists call it monkeypox, because the disease causes lesions similar to those seen in smallpox—a cousin of monkeypox. Also Read – Explained: Will monkeypox spread like Covid in India?
Although given the name “monkeypox”, the source of the disease remains unknown. However, African rats and non-human primates (such as monkeys) can harbor the virus and infect people. Also Read – Monkeypox in India: Places where cases have been reported
The first human case of monkeypox was reported in 1970. Before the 2022 outbreak, monkeypox was reported among people in several Central and West African countries. Previously, almost all monkeypox cases in people outside of Africa were linked to international travel to countries where the disease is common or to imported animals. These cases have occurred on multiple continents.
Monkeypox: Symptoms, Treatment
The most common symptoms of the virus that persist for 2-4 weeks are:-
- headache
- back pain
- fever
- Skin lesions
- Swollen nymph nodes
- tiredness
Treatment/prevention
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water.
- Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Avoid close skin-to-skin contact with infected people
- Do not touch the rash or scabs of an infected person.
- Not kissing, hugging, cuddling or having physical contact with an infected person.
- Do not share food, utensils or cups with an infected person.
- Do not handle or touch the bedding, towels, or clothing of a person who has monkeypox.
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