What Is Monkeypox Understanding the Virus
Monkeypox is a viral zoonosis, meaning it is a virus transmitted from animals to humans, that bears similarity to smallpox although it is clinically less severe. It is caused by the monkeypox virus, which belongs to the Orthopoxvirus genus in the family Poxviridae. The virus was first identified in 1958 during an outbreak among monkeys kept for research hence the name monkeypox.
The natural reservoir of monkeypox remains unknown, but African rodents and non-human primates like monkeys may harbor the virus and infect people. The virus typically enters the human body through broken skin even if not visible, the respiratory tract or the mucous membranes eyes, nose or mouth.
Human-to-human transmission is primarily through large respiratory droplets during prolonged face-to-face contact, which makes it relatively less contagious than smallpox. Physical contact with infected sores or sharing contaminated items like bedding can also spread the virus. The incubation period of monkeypox is usually from 6 to 13 days but can range from 5 to 21 days.
In recent years, monkeypox has emerged in new regions, including countries outside of Africa where it is not typically found. This occurrence suggests the potential for the virus to spread globally. Public health professionals are working to understand these patterns of transmission and to manage and prevent outbreaks effectively.
Symptoms of Monkeypox
The symptoms of monkeypox include fever headache muscle aches backache swollen lymph nodes chills exhaustion and a distinctive pox-like skin rash The rash typically starts on the face and spreads to other parts of the body. The incubation period for monkeypox is usually 7 to 14 days but can range from 5 to 21 days.
Causes of Monkeypox
Monkeypox is caused by the monkeypox virus which falls within the Orthopoxvirus genus in the family Poxviridae. It is a zoonotic virus meaning it can be transmitted from animals to humans. The infection primarily originates when a person comes into contact with the virus from an animal wild or domestic. This can occur through the handling of bushmeat direct contact with the blood bodily fluids or cutaneous or mucosal lesions of infected animals or through consumption of undercooked meat of infected animals.
The disease can also spread from human to human which is becoming more common. Transmission between people is mostly through respiratory droplets typically requiring prolonged face-to-face contact which puts family members caregivers and healthcare workers at higher risk. It can also be spread by direct contact with bodily fluids or lesion material and indirectly by contact with lesion-contaminated objects such as clothing or linens.
Risk Factors for Monkeypox
Monkeypox risk factors include various behaviours and situations that can increase the likelihood of exposure to the virus.
Geographical Location plays a significant role in monkeypox transmission. People living or traveling to areas where the virus is more prevalent particularly in Central and West African countries are at greater risk.
Close Physical Contact with someone who has a confirmed case of monkeypox significantly increases the risk of transmission. This includes living in the same household sharing a bed or room or engaging in skin-to-skin contact.
Occupational Exposure such as laboratory workers handling infected samples and healthcare workers who might be involved in the care of patients with confirmed or suspected monkeypox are at increased risk.
Contact with Contaminated Materials such as bedding clothing or other materials that have come into contact with an infected animal or person can be a source of transmission.
Compromised Skin Integrity such as broken skin wounds or chronic skin conditions like eczema can facilitate the entry of the virus into the body thus increasing susceptibility to infection.
Immunosuppression Individuals with weakened immune systems whether due to medical conditions such as HIV/AIDS or certain medical treatments are more vulnerable to monkeypox.
Treatment Options for Monkeypox
As of the latest data, various treatments and vaccines are available to manage and prevent monkeypox. These options are critical in controlling the spread of the disease and alleviating the symptoms in infected individuals.
Monkeypox Medications
Tecovirimat (TPOXX)
Tecovirimat also known by its brand name TPOXX is currently the frontline treatment for monkeypox. Initially developed for smallpox, tecovirimat has shown effectiveness in treating orthopoxviruses such as monkeypox. It is available in oral and intravenous forms and works by inhibiting the virus’s ability to spread within the body. The drug is generally well tolerated with relatively mild side effects.
Brincidofovir (Tembexa)
Brincidofovir is an antiviral medication that has been approved for the treatment of smallpox but can also be used under certain conditions to treat monkeypox. It targets the DNA replication process of the virus which slows down its proliferation. Due to potential liver toxicity its use is advised with caution and requires careful monitoring.
Vaccinia Immune Globulin (VIG)
While not a direct antiviral treatment Vaccinia Immune Globulin (VIG) can be used in specific cases particularly for severe complications arising from monkeypox. VIG is derived from individuals immunized against smallpox and can provide passive immunity allowing the immune system a better chance at fighting off the virus.
Monkeypox Vaccines
JYNNEOS (Imvamune or Imvanex)
As a newer prophylactic measure against monkeypox JYNNEOS is a non-replicating viral vaccine that has been approved in the United States and Europe. It is designed to protect against both monkeypox and smallpox and is suitable for individuals with weakened immune systems or those with eczema. It is given in two doses spaced a month apart and has shown good efficacy in preventing monkeypox infection.
ACAM2000
ACAM2000 is another effective vaccine derived from a live but weakened vaccinia virus. It is primarily used for the prevention of smallpox but also offers cross-protection against monkeypox. Due to its live virus nature it is not recommended for people with compromised immune systems or pregnant women. There are concerns about side effects and the vaccine can be transmitted to others in close physical contact.
Modified Vaccinia Ankara-Bavarian Nordic (MVA-BN)
A variant of the JYNNEOS vaccine MVA-BN provides strong immunity against both monkeypox and smallpox viruses. It also involves a two-dose regimen and is suitable for broad demographic use including those with immune deficiencies. The vaccine has demonstrated high levels of safety and efficacy in clinical trials.
Preventing Monkeypox Transmission
To effectively prevent the spread of monkeypox it is essential to understand and apply various strategies. The following are key measures:
Avoiding close physical contact with individuals who are infected is crucial. Monkeypox can spread through direct contact with the rash, scabs, or bodily fluids from an infected person.
When caring for or interacting with someone infected with monkeypox it is advised to wear protective clothing. This includes gloves and masks which are essential in preventing the transmission of the virus through respiratory droplets or direct contact with infected materials.
Regular handwashing with soap and water is vital to avoid the transmission of the virus particularly after contact with infected persons or animals. Hand sanitizers with at least 60 percent alcohol can be used when soap and water are not readily available.
Areas that are frequently touched such as doorknobs, bathroom fixtures, and mobile phones should be regularly cleaned and disinfected. Using approved disinfectants can help in killing the virus on surfaces and reducing the risk of contact transmission.
Isolation of individuals who have monkeypox is important until they have fully recovered. This helps to prevent the spread to other family members or close contacts. It is essential to follow local health guidelines on the duration and conditions of isolation.
Educating oneself and others about monkeypox symptoms and transmission routes contributes to better prevention and control of the disease. Public health campaigns can help in raising awareness and providing accurate information.
Monkeypox can also be transmitted from animals to humans. Avoiding contact with animals that could harbor the virus especially rodents and primates is necessary. Ensure that any food derived from wild animals is cooked thoroughly before consumption.
When outbreaks occur it is advisable to restrict travel to areas where monkeypox is prevalent. This can help in containing the spread of the virus across borders and limiting your exposure to the virus.
Conclusion
Monkeypox is a viral disease characterized by a distinctive rash and flu-like symptoms. The primary causes include direct contact with infected animals or humans and contamination from infected materials. Symptoms often start with fever, headache, muscle aches, and exhaustion followed by a rash that progresses through several stages. Treatment focuses on symptom management and may involve antivirals, pain relief medications, and vaccination for high-risk individuals. Early diagnosis and isolation are critical in controlling the spread of monkeypox.