Monkey pox virus
Monkey pox is a viral illness caused by monkey pox virus (MPXV).
MPXV is a member of the Orthopoxvirus genus and specifically the Variola
subgenus. The virus was first identified in 1958, but its true origin dates
back to the early 1900's. The disease causes fever, muscle aches, vomiting, and
flu-like symptoms. Its incubation period ranges between 8-14 days, although
most cases take 12-17 days. Most people recover after approximately 10-12 days
without treatment, but may still have long term complications. There are no
treatments currently approved by the FDA for human use, however patients can
receive standard supportive care such as IV fluids and pain medications.
The monkey pox virus was first discovered in 1967 in Senegal and
western Africa. There have been at least six outbreaks since then. Each
outbreak has resulted in several hundred cases of illness, ranging from mild
fever (up to 40°C) to severe symptoms involving skin blisters, ulcers and
sometimes necrosis. The mortality rate was high in some epidemics; for example,
two-thirds of those who contracted the disease died. Since 1990, three human
cases have been reported each year.
Monkey pox virus
This virus is a zoonotic disease that is normally transmitted to
humans by contact and close proximity with infected animals. In some cases, monkey
pox may be spread through human-to-human transmission. As of 2012, there have
been no reported transmissions of monkey pox from person to person; however,
there IS one documented case where the virus was passed between monkeys in
captivity. There is currently no vaccine for monkey pox, although research
continues.
Case fatality rate
The case fatality rate (CFR) is the number of deaths per 100
people who get sick from a disease. A low CFR means that many people recover
after contracting the disease while a high CFR means that many do not survive. Monkey
pox has a relatively low CFR, at about 15%, meaning that fewer than 1 out of 6
infections lead to death. However, if you look back at the outbreak of 2003,
you will notice that the CFR was much higher at over 60%.
Average incubation period
The average incubation period is how long it takes for symptoms
to appear after being exposed to the virus. Incubation period is directly
related to the severity of illness experienced by an individual. For example,
the longer the incubation period, the more serious the disease becomes. On
average, it takes about 14 days before someone gets sick from monkey pox.
Symptoms
Symptoms of monkey pox include rash, fever, headache, muscle
pain, fatigue, and swollen lymph nodes. People usually become ill 2–9 days
after getting their first exposure. Once infected, it is possible that
individuals develop immunity to subsequent exposures to the same strain of the
virus.
Transmission
Transmission occurs via direct contact with skin lesions, nose
secretions, eye discharge, or mucous membranes of infected animals. If you
touch a lesion on an infected animal's body, you could risk transmitting the
virus to yourself and then passing it along to others.
Prevention
There is currently no approved vaccine for monkey pox.
Therefore, prevention is entirely dependent upon good hygiene practices and
avoiding contact with those who are infectious. You should wash your hands
regularly and avoid touching your eyes, mouth, nose, and groin area. Avoid sharing
food items with anyone who recently had contact with someone who is infected.
