Mpox Awareness: Causes, Symptoms, and Prevention Tips

Have you heard of Mpox? You might recognize it by its former name, Monkeypox. It’s a viral infection that’s been making headlines lately, and if you’re feeling a bit concerned, you’re not alone. But don’t worry—I’m here to break it down for you in a way that’s easy to understand. Let’s talk about what Mpox is, how it spreads, and what you can do to protect yourself.

What is Mpox?

First things first—what exactly is Mpox? Mpox is caused by a virus that’s actually related to the one that causes smallpox, though Mpox is generally milder. It’s called “Monkeypox” because it was first discovered in monkeys back in the 1950s. But don’t let the name fool you—this virus can infect humans too.

How Common is Mpox?

While Mpox is not as widespread as something like the flu, cases have been popping up in various parts of the world. The virus was first discovered in 1958 in Denmark in research monkeys, and the first human case was recorded in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Mpox is endemic in Central and Western Africa, but after the eradication of smallpox in 1980, it began to emerge in other parts of the world. In 2022–2023, a global outbreak occurred, with cases reported in more than 43 countries, including North America and Europe. As of June 30, 2024, there were 99,176 confirmed cases and 208 deaths across 116 countries. There are two known types (clades) of the Mpox virus:

• Clade I: Originated in Central Africa
• Clade II: Originated in West Africa

The current global outbreak (2022 to 2023) is caused by Clade IIb, a subtype of the less severe West African clade. As of August 2024, cases of Mpox (monkeypox) have been reported in the following countries: Africa: Democratic Republic of Congo, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Kenya, Liberia, Mozambique, Nigeria, Republic of the Congo, Rwanda, South Africa, and Uganda. Other Regions: Pakistan, the Philippines, Sweden, and Thailand. It’s important to note that this list may not be entirely comprehensive, as new cases might have been reported since then. Additionally, some countries may have smaller outbreaks or fewer reported cases due to various factors, such as testing availability and reporting systems.

Who Does Mpox Affect?

Mpox doesn’t discriminate—it can affect anyone, regardless of age or gender. However, people who live in or have traveled to areas where the virus is common are at a higher risk. You can catch Mpox by:

• Having close contact with someone who’s infected
• Touching their rash or sores
• Breathing in their respiratory droplets
• Using contaminated items like bedding or towels

In addition to human-to-human transmission, Mpox can also spread from animals to humans. If you come into contact with an infected animal, such as a monkey, rodent, or even a pet that’s been exposed to the virus, you could be at risk.

Symptoms and Causes: What to Look Out For

Now, let’s talk about symptoms. If you get Mpox, you might experience:

• Fever
• Headache
• Muscle aches
• Fatigue
• Swollen lymph nodes
• A rash that starts on your face and spreads to other parts of your body

Mpox usually starts with flu-like symptoms such as fever, headaches, and muscle aches. You might feel pretty run down, and your lymph nodes could swell up. A few days later, a rash can develop—starting on your face and then spreading to other parts of your body. The rash goes through several stages, from flat red spots to blisters filled with fluid, and eventually, they scab over and heal.

Prevention: What You Can Do to Stay Safe

Prevention is key when it comes to Mpox. Here are some simple steps you can take to protect yourself and others:

• Avoid Close Contact: If someone around you is showing symptoms of Mpox, it’s best to keep your distance. This includes avoiding direct contact with their rash or any bodily fluids.
• Practice Good Hygiene: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially after coming into contact with someone who’s sick. Hand sanitizers can also be effective in a pinch.
• Use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): If you’re caring for someone who has Mpox, wearing a mask, gloves, and other protective gear can help reduce your risk of catching the virus.
• Stay Informed: Keep an eye on the news and health advisories in your area. If there’s an outbreak, follow the guidelines provided by health authorities.

If you have more questions about Mpox, don’t hesitate to reach out to your doctor or a healthcare professional. They can provide you with detailed information and personalized advice. Staying informed is crucial! Let’s join forces to prevent the spread of Mpox and keep everyone healthy. For more health updates, follow Esteve Pharma Limited.