Monkeypox Declared a Global Health Emergency
What is Monkeypox?
Monkeypox is a viral illness caused by the monkeypox virus, a species of the genus Orthopoxvirus.
Monkeypox virus belongs to the same family of viruses that cause smallpox, but it is milder.
How Does Monkeypox Spread?
Monkeypox primarily spreads through direct contact with an infected animal or person.
The virus can also spread through contact with contaminated objects, such as clothing or bedding.
The virus is evolving, and the newest version spreads more often through sexual contact.
Symptoms of Monkeypox
Symptoms of monkeypox typically develop within 1-2 weeks of infection and are similar to those of smallpox, but milder.
Early symptoms include fever, chills, muscle aches, headache, and swollen lymph nodes.
A rash develops 1-3 days after the onset of fever, starting on the face and spreading to other parts of the body.
Treatment for Monkeypox
There is no specific treatment for monkeypox, but supportive care can help relieve symptoms.
Most people recover from monkeypox within 2-4 weeks.
Prevention of Monkeypox
There are several measures you can take to prevent monkeypox:
- Avoid contact with infected animals or people.
- Practice good hygiene, including frequent hand washing.
- Avoid sharing contaminated objects.
- Get vaccinated against monkeypox if you are at high risk of exposure.
Monkeypox Outbreak Declared a Global Health Emergency
The World Health Organization (WHO) declared the ongoing monkeypox outbreak in Africa a public health emergency of international concern on July 23, 2023.
This is the highest level of alert that the WHO can issue.
The WHO declared mpox a global health emergency in July 2022 as well, when the virus was first found to spread through sexual contact.
What Does This Mean?
The WHO's declaration means that the outbreak is a serious threat to global public health.
It also means that the WHO will be working with countries to coordinate a response to the outbreak.
What Can You Do?
There are several things you can do to help prevent the spread of monkeypox:
- Get vaccinated against monkeypox if you are at high risk of exposure.
- Practice good hygiene, including frequent hand washing.
- Avoid contact with infected animals or people.
- Avoid sharing contaminated objects.
For more information on monkeypox, please visit the WHO website: https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/monkeypox
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