Monkeypox : Current Scenario and Symptoms
WHO is in a conundrum over whether MonkeyPox should be declared as a global emergency or not, with over 3,200 confirmed Monkeypox cases and one official death. Few experts were of the opinion that declaring Monkeypox as a global emergency would give it the same significance as the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, which can raise more awareness. Though other scientists were skeptical whether such measures would help control the epidemic, as the countries with the most recent cases are moving quickly to shut it down.
The symptoms of MonkeyPox are as Follows :
- Headache
- Fever
- Rashes which are like blisters
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Exhaustion
- Muscle Aches
In case, one experiences similar symptoms to what is given above, medical confirmation is necessary. This is especially because symptoms of Monkeypox are similar to that of other diseases like syphilis or chickenpox. Distance must be observed from other people and isolation should be undertaken as prevention.
The rashes in Monkeypox shall appear on the face, hands, mouth, or genitals. The rashes will turn into bumps and blisters and might fill with a white fluid before breaking out. Monkeypox is said to be mild and the time duration of it has been recorded from 2-4 weeks.
How to prevent Monkeypox from Spreading :
As Monkeypox can be transmitted through the places the infected person has been to/ touched, exposure to such surfaces and materials should be avoided. Anyone who is in contact with the infected, including medical and health care workers should take preventive measures. Some measures given by WHO are using a condom during sex, sneezing into a paper towel, washing hands thoroughly with soap and water; basically anything to avoid transmission through skin contact of the infected.
What about a vaccine against MonkeyPox ?
Doctors have shared that the vaccination against smallpox may work for Monkeypox as well, with an efficacy of about 85%. Doctors said that it would not prevent infection, but it would definitely provide better protection against the infection.
As of now, Imvanex, the smallpox vaccination, is given as a protection against Monkeypox in many countries, though it is not declared as a cure for the virus for the entire population; but only handed out for certain risk groups.
