Table of Contents
Introduction
Mpox, earlier known as monkeypox, is a viral zoonosis by character—for example, transferred from animals to humans. While much less pathogenic than smallpox, finally eradicated in 1980, Mpox can still be pretty problematic. Knowing the virus, symptoms, and treatment solutions is very important for effective outbreak control and prevention of the further spread of this disease.
What is the Mpox Virus?
Mpox is an infection caused by the Mpox virus, a member of the genus Orthopoxvirus in the family Poxviridae. The virus was named so because it was first isolated from two outbreaks of a pox-like illness among monkeys kept for research in 1958. Its first case in humans happened in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of Congo during efforts at eradicating smallpox.
It is endemic to Central and West Africa, predominantly in the tropical areas that have rainforests; however, through international travel and trade, it has spread to many other countries. The exact natural reservoir for the Mpox virus is still unknown, although several animals act as hosts for the virus, among them rodents and non-human primates.
How Is Mpox Transmitted?
The Mpox virus is acquired by humans through direct contact with the blood, body fluids, and even skin and mucosal lesion exudates of an infected animal. Human-to-human transmission, on the other hand, occurs through respiratory droplets, in addition to direct contact with body fluids, lesion exudates, and infectious bedding. This virus can infect a fetus still in the womb from the placenta or at delivery.
Symptoms of Mpox Virus
The major symptoms are those of smallpox in mild form. From infection to the first appearance of symptoms, known as the incubation period, usually lasts from 6 to 13 days but may range from 5 to 21 days. It often begins with the following:
- Fever
- Headache
- Muscle aches
- Backache
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Chills
- Exhaustion
Within 1 to 3 days after the appearance of fever, a rash develops, often starting on the face and spreading to other parts of the body, including the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. The rash progresses through several stages:
- Macules: Flat, red spots
- Papules: Raised bumps
- Vesicles: Fluid-filled blisters
- Pustules: Pus-filled lesions
- Scabs: Lesions crust over and eventually fall off
The illness typically lasts for 2 to 4 weeks, with the scabs falling off after the rash has passed through all its stages. In some cases, especially in individuals with compromised immune systems, the disease can be severe and lead to complications such as secondary infections, bronchopneumonia, sepsis, encephalitis, and corneal infection, which can result in vision loss.[1]
Diagnosis of Mpox
Mpox can be diagnosed through a combination of clinical evaluation, patient history, and laboratory testing. Given the symptoms’ similarity to other diseases like chickenpox, smallpox, or other poxvirus infections, laboratory confirmation is crucial.
- Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) is the most accurate diagnostic test, detecting viral DNA in samples from skin lesions, blood, or respiratory secretions.[5]
- Serology Tests can detect antibodies produced in response to the infection, although they are less reliable for immediate diagnosis.[6]
- Electron Microscopy technique can help identify the virus in a sample, but it is typically reserved for research purposes.[7]
Treatment and Prevention of Mpox
There is currently no specific treatment approved for Mpox, but several therapeutic options can help manage symptoms and complications.
Treatment
i) Supportive Care:
Most patients recover with supportive care that addresses symptoms. This includes hydration, pain management, and treating secondary bacterial infections if they arise.
ii) Antivirals:
Some antiviral drugs used for smallpox, such as tecovirimat (TPOXX), have shown effectiveness against Mpox in laboratory studies and are used under compassionate use protocols.
iii) Immunoglobulins:
Vaccinia immune globulin (VIG) may be used for severe cases, particularly in immunocompromised patients.[4]
Prevention
i) Vaccination:
The smallpox vaccine offers cross-protection against Mpox and is used in some cases to prevent infection. Newer vaccines, such as JYNNEOS (Imvanex/Imvamune), are being used in high-risk populations.
ii) Avoiding Contact:
Limiting contact with animals that could harbor the virus and avoiding consumption of wild game can reduce the risk of zoonotic transmission.
iii) Hygiene Practices:
Regular handwashing, using protective equipment when caring for patients, and isolating infected individuals are key preventive measures. [4]
Conclusion
Mpox is a re-emerging viral disease that requires vigilance and awareness to manage effectively. While it is less severe than smallpox, understanding its symptoms, transmission routes, and treatment options is essential for controlling outbreaks and ensuring public health safety. As global travel and trade continue to rise, so does the risk of Mpox spreading to non-endemic regions, making global cooperation and education on the virus increasingly important
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References
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
- Research articles on Mpox treatment and prevention strategies
- Treatment and prevention of monkeypox
- National Human Genome Research Institute
- MedlinePlus
- UMass Chan Medical School