Monkeypox (Mpox) Virus 2024: How It Spreads & Ways to Prevent It

Monkeypox Virus 2024: Monkeypox (Mpox) has again captured global attention with a significant surge in cases. This blog delves into the current Mpox outbreak, detailing Mpox cases in India, statistics, symptoms, treatment, and preventive measures to help you stay informed and safe.

What is Monkeypox?

Monkeypox is a viral zoonotic disease caused by the DNA Monkeypox virus (MPXV), belonging to the Orthopoxvirus genus. It was first discovered in 1958 among monkeys kept for research, leading to its name. The first human case was identified in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. 

Monkeypox is classified into different clades, with Clade I and Clade II being the primary ones. Recently, there has been a resurgence in cases associated with Clade Ib, prompting renewed global concern.

Monkeypox Cases in the World 

The Mpox outbreak has resulted in an increase in cases, especially across Africa, prompting the World Health Organisation (WHO) to classify it as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) on August 14, 2024. This resurgence is linked to Clade Ib and reflects a troubling trend in the spread and impact of the virus. The disease has affected various regions, including the Democratic Republic of the Congo and other African countries, and has spread through different modes of transmission.

Monkeypox Cases in India 

In India, Mpox cases have been reported since July 14, 2022, with the most recent case documented on March 27, 2024. A total of 30 laboratory-confirmed cases have been recorded, split equally between Kerala and Delhi. Affected individuals ranged from 22 to 48 years of age, including 18 males and 12 females. There has been one death in Kerala, and most cases had international travel history.

Symptoms of Monkeypox

Understanding the monkeypox symptoms is crucial for early detection and treatment. Symptoms typically appear in two phases:

Prodrome (0–5 Days)

• Fever: Sudden onset high temperature
• Headache: Persistent and severe headaches
• Muscle aches: General body discomfort
• Body ache: Joint and muscle pain
• Malaise: Overall feeling of unwellness
• Lymphadenopathy: Swollen lymph nodes, distinguishing it from chickenpox
• Chills or sweats: Alternating between cold and hot sensations
• Sore throat and cough: Respiratory discomfort

Rash (1-3 Days After Fever Onset)

• Lesions: Painful spots, mainly on the face, palms, and soles.
• Genital and perigenital lesions: Prominent in recent outbreaks.
• Rash progression: Maculopapules- Vesicles- Pustules- Crusts over.
• Duration: Last 2-4 weeks.

What are the First Signs of Monkeypox?

The first signs of monkeypox include fever, headache, muscle aches, and a distinctive rash that starts as flat spots and progresses to fluid-filled blisters. Early detection is important for managing the disease effectively.

Causes of Monkeypox

Monkeypox is transmitted through several means:

• Person-to-person: Via close contact with an infected individual, including face-to-face interactions, skin-to-skin contact, and contact with contaminated surfaces or objects.
• Animal-to-human: Through bites, scratches, or handling infected animals such as rodents or primates. Consuming undercooked meat from infected animals can also be a risk.
• Human-to-animal: Rarely, humans can transmit the virus to animals, though the evidence is limited.

How is Monkeypox Diagnosed?

Diagnosis involves:

• Clinical examination: Assessment of symptoms and physical signs, including the characteristic rash.
• Laboratory testing: Confirmation through PCR testing of skin lesions, blood, or other bodily fluids. Samples are processed at specialised labs like those in Pune or the IDSP lab network.

How is Monkeypox Treated?

Treatment for monkeypox focuses on alleviating symptoms and preventing complications:

• Symptomatic treatment: Pain relief and fever management.
• Isolation: Keeping infected individuals separate to prevent spread.
• Rehydration and nutritional support: Ensuring adequate fluid intake and nutrition.
• Antiviral drugs: Tecovirimat and other medications may be used in severe cases.

Monkeypox Vaccine

Two main vaccines have been approved for preventing monkeypox:

• MVA-BN: Manufactured by Bavaria Nordic.
• LC16: Manufactured by KM Biologics.

The ACAM2000 vaccine may be considered if the others are unavailable. 

Vaccination is recommended for high-risk individuals, such as those with multiple sexual partners, healthcare workers, and laboratory personnel.

How to Prevent Monkeypox?

Preventive measures include:

• Avoiding contact: Stay away from individuals with monkeypox symptoms.
• Isolation: Infected persons should be isolated to prevent transmission.
• Good hygiene: Practice regular handwashing and use PPE when required.
• Safe handling: Ensure thorough meat cooking and avoid contact with wild animals.

Outlook

The outlook for monkeypox depends on timely detection and effective management. The virus's impact can be controlled with appropriate precautions and vaccination for high-risk groups. Continued vigilance and research are essential to prevent future outbreaks and mitigate the current ones.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is monkeypox deadly?

Monkeypox can be serious, particularly in unvaccinated individuals or those with compromised health. Death is rare but can occur.

What organ does monkeypox affect?

The virus primarily affects the skin and lymph nodes but can cause systemic symptoms such as fever and fatigue.

Is monkeypox curable?

There is no specific cure, but symptoms can be managed with supportive care and antiviral treatments.

How many days does monkeypox last?

The illness usually lasts 2 to 4 weeks, with recovery time varying based on severity.

Who is most affected by monkeypox?

Those who have had close interactions with infected individuals or animals, especially in high-risk environments, as well as sexually active individuals, including gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men, are particularly vulnerable. Additionally, anyone with multiple sexual partners is also at an increased risk.