Mpox, formerly called monkeypox, is a viral disease related to smallpox but milder. A new, dangerous strain is spreading in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo).
Here’s a breakdown:
Mpox in Africa: Mpox is endemic in parts of West and Central Africa, with thousands of cases and hundreds of deaths annually, especially in children under 15.
Two Strains: There are two main strains. The milder one caused a global outbreak in 2022. The deadlier strain is endemic in Central Africa, including the new one in DR Congo.
Symptoms:
Initial flu-like symptoms: fever, headache, swelling, back pain, muscle aches.
Rash: Starts on the face, spreads to palms, soles, and other parts of the body. Can be itchy and painful, goes through stages, and leaves scars.
Lasts 14-21 days, usually clears on its own. Serious cases can have widespread lesions.
Transmission:
Close contact with infected people: sex, skin-to-skin contact, talking/breathing close.
Contact with contaminated objects: bedding, clothing, towels.
Contact with infected animals: monkeys, rats, squirrels.
2022 outbreak: spread mainly through sexual contact. DR Congo outbreak: similar, but also in other communities.
Who’s Most at Risk:
People who are sexually active, especially with multiple or new partners (men who have sex with men at higher risk).
Anyone in close contact with someone who has mpox, including healthcare workers and family members.
Prevention:
Avoid close contact with infected people.
Wash hands frequently.
Isolate if you have mpox until lesions disappear.
Use condoms for 12 weeks after recovery (WHO recommendation).
Treatment:
Limited research on a therapy used for smallpox.
Vaccination is the best way to prevent mpox.
Three vaccines exist, but usually only for high-risk individuals or those exposed.
Mass vaccination not currently recommended by WHO.
More research needed on vaccine effectiveness against new strains.
Source: BBC News
