Monkeypox, which was a lesser-known disease a few months ago, has seen an increase in the number of patients. Several European countries (like Portugal, France, Finland, and Spain), Canada, the United States, Singapore, Australia, and Nigeria have recorded deaths due to Monkeypox. Now, the disease is slowly reaching Asian countries.
The World Health Organization (WHO) declared an emergency on 21st July, as global cases have reached 14,000. Another reason for the emergency is that several new countries reported their first cases at the end of July. At first, the WHO committee refused to consider it an emergency. But as the situation is growing worse and is expected to get out of hand, it is important to bring the world’s attention to the issue so that every country and concerning organizations can work to reduce its spread around the globe.
If you’re wondering what Monkeypox is and if there are any treatment methods, here’s what you should know.
What Is Monkeypox?
This disease is caused by a monkeypox virus, which is an orthodox virus. Monkeypox has similar but less serious symptoms compared to smallpox. Although much of the world eradicated smallpox by 1980, countries in west and central Africa were unable to do so.
The monkeypox virus was identified as an illness in 1958. This disease is zoonosis, which means illnesses that animals can transfer to humans. Therefore, it was hard to control Monkeypox in some African regions. These areas are close to tropical rainforests with animals, such as squirrels, rats, and monkeys, that carry the virus.
Is Monkeypox a Life-Threatening Disease?
Yes, this is the primary reason WHO declared it an emergency. The organization took this step to prevent the world from suffering from another pandemic after COVID. The world has already suffered a lot in the last two years. Hence, it’s no secret that many countries don’t have the economic strength and health resources to control and eradicate another disease.
In 2022, according to WHO, 71 Member States from all WHO regions have reported 14,000 cases. Many counties have controlled the illnesses, while many are seeing rapid growth of diseases. Also, different countries have reported 5 deaths in the current year.
WHO experts and others are trying to understand the transmission patterns and reason for its rapid growth. Getting the answers can help countries implement targeted public health interventions and devise an awareness plan.
Symptoms of the Disease
Monkeypox symptoms are typically easily noticeable. This disease is characterized by a sudden and unique rash that develops into round, hard, or pus-filled skin lesions. But these painful skin symptoms develop a few days after you get the virus. The most common early symptoms include:
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Chills
- Fever
- Muscle aches
According to reports and surveys, the monkeypox rash usually develops after one to three days of fever. But some people notice sores and a rash before they feel anything. So, whatever symptom you notice, take it seriously.
What Treatment Methods are Available for Monkeypox?
Generally, Monkeypox is a mild illness, and many people recover from it in a few weeks, if not days. But some patients suffer from severe symptoms that need serious medical intervention. These people need to be admitted to the hospital as soon as possible. However, there is no specific treatment for this illness.
Health experts are using antiviral medications that have worked for smallpox in the past. People who have come into contact with someone who has suffered from Monkeypox can get a vaccine. This can help them develop a resistance to the disease or at least reduce the severity of symptoms.
Furthermore, people who are showing extreme symptoms might need other treatment to control the illness. In this case, doctors decide on a treatment process based on their condition. If you notice any symptoms of Monkeypox, you should see a doctor ensure that you haven’t got the virus.
What Steps is WHO taking to resolve the Problem?
While only a few deaths occurred due to Monkeypox, WHO suggested that countries and healthcare institutions bring the disease under control. WHO has indicated that controlling the spread requires quick response efforts.
Many WHO members have also recommended that countries closely monitor and review the situation for a few weeks to understand its control rate. WHO may also take further steps based on the increased growth rate over the next few days. Also, the organization is closely monitoring the occurrence of cases among sex workers, as many of the monkeypox cases are reported to be men who are involved in sexual relationships with men.
Besides that, World Health Organization is also noting the spread of disease within different countries and trying to find its actual source to prevent it from spreading more. The organizations are also concerned about vulnerable groups, like pregnant women, children, and HIV patients, and looking for ways to control the disease among these groups. So, you can expect more information from WHO in a few weeks. Until then, it’s important to look after your health and visit a doctor in case you develop any symptoms.
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