In 2024, Monkeypox is spreading rapidly. This disease is caused by the Monkeypox virus and can present with severe symptoms. Therefore, understanding Monkeypox, including its symptoms, transmission, prevention, and vaccination options, is crucial for avoiding infection and helping to control the outbreak.

What You Need to Know About Monkeypox: Symptoms, Risk Factors, Transmission, and Vaccination

What is Monkeypox?

Monkeypox is a viral disease caused by the Monkeypox virus, which belongs to the Orthopoxvirus family, the same family as the virus that causes Smallpox. Although Monkeypox shares similarities with Smallpox, it is generally less severe.

Monkeypox was first discovered in 1958 when the virus was found in laboratory monkeys used for Smallpox research. Currently, Monkeypox is commonly found in wild rodents, such as rats and squirrels, particularly in the tropical rainforests of Africa. However, the disease can spread to humans through close contact with infected animals or their bodily fluids and also from person to person, leading to the outbreaks.

Symptoms of Monkeypox

Monkeypox symptoms typically start with flu-like symptoms, including:

• Fever: A common initial symptom.
• Headache: Often severe and sometimes accompanied by fever.
• Muscle and back pain: Some infected individuals may experience muscle and back pain.
• Swollen lymph nodes: Noticeable swelling of lymph nodes in the neck and other areas.
• Chills and fatigue: Some people may experience chills and fatigue.

Shortly after these initial symptoms, a rash usually appears, starting on the face and spreading to other parts of the body. This rash progresses through different stages, from red spots to blisters, pustules, and eventually scabs.

How Monkeypox Spreads

Monkeypox can be transmitted through several methods:

• Close contact with an infected person: Touching or being near an infected individual.
• Contact with infected animals: Such as rodents that may carry the virus.
• Contact with contaminated objects: Including clothing or bedding contaminated with the virus.
• Respiratory droplets: Transmission through droplets from the respiratory tract in close contact.
• Contact with blood or bodily fluids: Such as mucus or saliva from an infected person.

Human-to-human transmission usually occurs through prolonged close contact or exposure to bodily fluids and lesions. Therefore, special caution is needed if you are in a high-risk area or close to someone who might have Monkeypox.

Severity and Risks of Monkeypox

Monkeypox is dangerous, though it is generally less severe than Smallpox. The risks and death rates are as follows:

1. Death Rate: The mortality rate for Monkeypox is around 1-10%, depending on the virus strain.
2. Possible Complications: Most patients recover within 2-4 weeks, but complications like secondary bacterial infections, pneumonia, or eye infections can occur.
3. High-Risk Groups: Young children, individuals with weakened immune systems, or those with pre-existing conditions may face a higher risk of severe Monkeypox and its complications.

Preventing Monkeypox

Although there is no specific treatment for Monkeypox, the disease may resolve on its own or be managed with antiviral medications like Tecovirimat, which was developed for Smallpox and might also be effective against Monkeypox.

For those without antiviral medications or vaccines, prevention methods include:

• Avoiding contact with infected animals: Especially in areas where Monkeypox is prevalent.
• Maintaining hygiene: Frequently washing hands with soap and water.
• Using personal protective equipment (PPE): When caring for infected patients.
• Vaccination: Smallpox vaccines can prevent Monkeypox.

Monkeypox Vaccines

The vaccines used for preventing Monkeypox are generally derived from Smallpox vaccines. Currently, two vaccines are available:

1. ACAM2000: A Smallpox vaccine that also offers protection against Monkeypox. It is based on the Vaccinia virus, which is similar to the Monkeypox virus.
2. JYNNEOS (or Imvamune/Imvanex): A newer vaccine developed specifically for Monkeypox. It is highly safe, does not cause virus spread, and is suitable for individuals with weakened immune systems.

The effectiveness of Monkeypox vaccines is expected to be high, potentially reducing risk by up to 85%, especially when administered before exposure to the virus.

While the Monkeypox vaccine is generally effective, some people may experience side effects such as redness or swelling at the injection site or mild fever. Individuals with immune deficiencies or known allergies to vaccine components should consult a doctor before vaccination.