Monkeypox Facts: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

WHO reports that so far there have been 80 cases of monkeypox in 11 countries

REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, JAKARTA — The World Health Organization (WHO) has announced that there have been a total of 80 reported cases of monkeypox (monkeypox) in 11 countries to date. WHO said it was working to better understand the extent and causes of the outbreak.

The WHO says the virus is endemic in some animal populations in a number of countries, causing occasional outbreaks among locals and travellers. WHO has also released a list of frequently asked questions and answers about monkeypox One IndiaAhad (22/5/2022).

What is Monkey Pox?

Monkeypox is a disease caused by the monkeypox virus. It is a viral zoonotic disease, which means it can spread from animals to humans. It can also spread between people.

Where are the symptoms of monkeypox?

Symptoms monkey pox usually include fever, severe headache, muscle aches, backache, low energy, swollen lymph nodes and skin rashes or lesions. The rash usually begins within one to three days of the onset of the fever. Lesions or sores can be flat, slightly raised, filled with clear or yellowish fluid, and then may harden, dry out and fall off.

The number of lesions in one person can range from a few to several thousand. The rash tends to be concentrated on the face, palms of the hands and soles of the feet. They can also be found in the mouth, genitals, and eyes.

Symptoms usually last between two to four weeks and go away on their own without treatment. If you think you have symptoms that may be monkeypox, seek advice from a health care provider. Tell them if you have had close contact with someone who has suspected or confirmed monkeypox.

Can people die because of Monkeypox?

In most cases, monkeypox symptoms go away on their own within a few weeks, but in some individuals, they can lead to medical complications and even death. Newborns, children, and people with underlying immune deficiencies may be at risk for more serious symptoms and death from monkeypox.

Complications from severe cases of monkeypox include skin infections, pneumonia, confusion, and eye infections which can lead to vision loss. About 3 – 6 percent of reported cases have resulted in death in recent endemic countries. It often occurs in children or in people who may have other health conditions. It is important to note that this may be an overestimate as surveillance in endemic countries is limited.

Is there a treatment for monkeypox?

Monkeypox symptoms often resolve on their own without the need for treatment. It is important to treat the rash by letting it dry if possible or covering it with a damp bandage to protect the area if needed.

Vaccinia immune globulin (VIG) may be recommended for severe cases. An antiviral developed to treat smallpox (tecovirimat, commercialized as TPOXX) was also approved for the treatment of monkeypox in January 2022.

How did monkeypox spread from animals to humans?

Monkeypox can be spread to people when they come into physical contact with infected animals. Host animals include rodents and primates. The risk of contracting monkeypox from animals can be reduced by avoiding unprotected contact with wild animals, especially sick or dead ones (including their flesh and blood).

In endemic countries where animals carry monkeypox, any food containing meat or animal parts must be thoroughly cooked before eating.

How is monkeypox spread from person to person?

People with monkeypox are contagious when they have symptoms (usually between two and four weeks). A person can catch monkeypox through close physical contact with those who have symptoms.

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