Mpox: What You Need to Know

What is Mpox?

Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is an infectious disease caused by the monkeypox virus. It is a zoonotic disease, meaning it can be transmitted from animals to humans. Mpox is typically less severe than smallpox, but it can still cause serious illness.

Mpox is spread through close contact with an infected person or animal. The virus can enter the body through broken skin, the respiratory tract, or the mucous membranes of the eyes, nose, or mouth.

Symptoms of Mpox

- Fever

- Headache

- Muscle aches

- Backache

- Swollen lymph nodes

- Rash that starts as flat red spots and progresses to raised bumps filled with pus

How is Mpox Treated?

There is no specific treatment for mpox. Treatment is supportive and includes measures to relieve symptoms and prevent complications.

People with mpox should rest and drink plenty of fluids. They may also take over-the-counter pain relievers to reduce fever and muscle aches.

In severe cases, mpox can be fatal. However, most people who get mpox recover within a few weeks.

How to Prevent Mpox

There are several things you can do to prevent mpox:

• Avoid contact with infected people or animals.
• If you must come into contact with an infected person or animal, wear gloves and a mask.
• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after coming into contact with an infected person or animal.
• Get vaccinated against smallpox. The smallpox vaccine is effective in preventing mpox.

Outbreak of Mpox in 2022

In May 2022, an outbreak of mpox began in several countries outside of Africa, where the virus is endemic. The outbreak has since spread to over 100 countries.

The outbreak has primarily affected men who have sex with men. However, anyone can get mpox, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the mpox outbreak a public health emergency of international concern.