Monkeypox in India: First Mpox Case Detected, Symptoms And Precautions to Know When Infected

The recent detection of the first Monkeypox (Mpox) case in India has brought the virus into the spotlight, raising concerns and questions about its symptoms, transmission, and necessary precautions. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of Monkeypox, including how it is diagnosed, its symptoms, and the steps you can take to protect yourself and your community.

Understanding Monkeypox (Mpox)

Monkeypox is a viral zoonotic disease that was first identified in humans in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of Congo. It is caused by the Monkeypox virus, which belongs to the Orthopoxvirus genus in the family Poxviridae. The virus is closely related to other poxviruses such as variola (smallpox) virus and vaccinia virus.

The disease has primarily been reported in central and west African countries. However, recent outbreaks in non-endemic countries, including India, have raised global concern. The World Health Organization (WHO) declared the current Monkeypox outbreak a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) in July 2022.

Symptoms of Monkeypox

The clinical presentation of Monkeypox is similar to that of smallpox, but it is generally less severe. The disease can be divided into two periods:

1. Invasion period (0-5 days): This period is characterized by fever, intense headache, lymphadenopathy (swelling of the lymph nodes), back pain, myalgia (muscle aches), and intense asthenia (lack of energy). Lymphadenopathy is a distinctive feature of Monkeypox compared to other diseases that may initially appear similar (chickenpox, measles, smallpox).
2. Skin eruption period (1-3 days after the appearance of fever): During this phase, a rash appears, starting on the face and then spreading to other parts of the body. The lesions progress through four stages: macules, papules, vesicles, and crusted lesions. The number of lesions varies from a few to several thousand. In severe cases, lesions can coalesce until large sections of skin slough off.

Transmission

Monkeypox can spread from animals to humans (zoonotic transmission) and from one person to another (human-to-human transmission). Human-to-human transmission occurs primarily through close contact with lesions, body fluids, respiratory droplets, and contaminated materials such as bedding. The virus enters the body through broken skin, the respiratory tract, or the mucous membranes (eyes, nose, or mouth).

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis of Monkeypox is based on the clinical presentation and laboratory testing. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing is the preferred laboratory test given its accuracy and sensitivity. Since Monkeypox is visually similar to other diseases like chickenpox and measles, laboratory confirmation is critical to ensure appropriate case management.

There is no specific treatment for Monkeypox. However, the symptoms can be managed, and the prognosis depends on the patient’s overall health and the severity of the symptoms. Complications of Monkeypox can include secondary infections, pneumonia, sepsis, encephalitis, and loss of vision. Vaccination against smallpox has been shown to be about 85% effective in preventing Monkeypox, but the vaccine is not widely available since smallpox was declared eradicated in 1980.

Precautions and Preventive Measures

• Avoid close contact with animals that could harbor the virus, including sick or dead animals in areas where Monkeypox occurs.
• Practice good hand hygiene with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Use personal protective equipment (PPE) when caring for patients with suspected or confirmed Monkeypox infection.
• Avoid contact with any materials, such as bedding, that have been in contact with a sick person or animal.
• Isolate infected individuals to prevent the spread of the virus to others.
• Seek medical attention immediately if you suspect you have been exposed to Monkeypox or if you develop symptoms consistent with the disease.

In conclusion, while the detection of the first Monkeypox case in India is concerning, understanding the virus’s transmission, symptoms, and prevention measures can help mitigate its impact. By staying informed and vigilant, individuals and communities can take proactive steps to protect themselves and prevent the spread of Monkeypox.

FAQs

Q: How is Monkeypox different from smallpox?

A: Although Monkeypox and smallpox share similar symptoms, Monkeypox generally causes less severe illness. Additionally, Monkeypox causes lymph nodes to swell (lymphadenopathy) while smallpox does not. The main difference is the availability of specific vaccines and treatments; smallpox was declared eradicated globally in 1980, leading to the discontinuation of routine smallpox vaccination.

Q: Can Monkeypox be transmitted through sexual contact?

A: Yes, Monkeypox can spread through close, personal, often skin-to-skin contact, including sexual contact. The virus can be transmitted during intimate activities like kissing, cuddling, or sex. However, it is essential to note that Monkeypox is not a sexually transmitted infection in the classic sense; it can spread during other forms of close contact as well.

Q: How can healthcare providers protect themselves from Monkeypox?

A: Healthcare providers should adhere to standard and transmission-based precautions when caring for patients with suspected or confirmed Monkeypox infection. This includes wearing appropriate PPE such as gloves, gowns, masks, and eye protection, and practicing good hand hygiene.

Understanding and applying these preventive measures are crucial in curbing the spread of Monkeypox, especially in the wake of the first detected case in India. By staying informed and cautious, both individuals and healthcare providers can contribute to limiting the impact of this virus.

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