Understanding Monkeypox: What You Need to Know

Introduction

With confirmed cases of Monkeypox in the Philippines, it is crucial to stay informed and take the necessary precautions to protect yourself and your community. Monkeypox, a rare viral disease, is transmitted to humans through close contact with an infected person or animal, or with contaminated materials. The symptoms can be similar to those of Chickenpox and Measles, but there are important differences that everyone should be aware of. This blog will provide you with vital information on Monkeypox, how it is transmitted, symptoms to look out for, and preventive measures.

What is Monkeypox?

Monkeypox is a viral zoonosis (a virus transmitted to humans from animals) with symptoms similar to those seen in the past in smallpox patients, although it is clinically less severe. The virus belongs to the Orthopoxvirus genus, which includes the variola virus (which causes smallpox) and the vaccinia virus (used in the smallpox vaccine). The first human case of Monkeypox was identified in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and the disease has since been reported in several other central and western African countries.

Transmission

Monkeypox can be transmitted to humans through close contact with an infected person or animal, or with material contaminated with the virus. The virus enters the body through broken skin, respiratory tract, or mucous membranes (eyes, nose, or mouth). Human-to-human transmission primarily occurs through:

• Close contact with respiratory droplets
• Direct contact with body fluids or lesions
• Contact with contaminated materials (such as bedding or clothing)

Symptoms

The incubation period for Monkeypox is usually 6 to 13 days, but can range from 5 to 21 days. The infection can be divided into two periods:

1. Invasion Period (0-5 days):
   – Fever
   – Severe headache
   – Lymphadenopathy (swelling of the lymph nodes)
   – Back pain
   – Muscle aches (myalgia)
   – Lack of energy (asthenia)
2. Skin Eruption Period (within 1-3 days after fever onset):
   – The rash begins on the face and then spreads to other parts of the body. The rash affects the face (in 95% of cases), and palms of the hands and soles of the feet (in 75% of cases). It also affects the mucous membranes (70% of cases), genitalia (30%), and conjunctivae (20%), as well as the cornea.
   – The rash evolves sequentially from macules (lesions with a flat base) to papules (slightly raised firm lesions), vesicles (lesions filled with clear fluid), pustules (lesions filled with yellowish fluid), and crusts, which dry up and fall off.

The disease is usually self-limiting with symptoms lasting from 2 to 4 weeks. Severe cases can occur, particularly in children, pregnant women, or individuals with weakened immune systems.

Comparison with Chickenpox and Measles

It is important to differentiate Monkeypox from Chickenpox and Measles. Here’s a brief comparison:

• Fever: Monkeypox fever occurs 1-3 days before the rash, similar to Chickenpox (1-2 days) and Measles (3-5 days).
• Rash Appearance: The Monkeypox rash is often at the same stage of development across the body, whereas Chickenpox lesions can appear in different stages. Measles rash usually starts on the face and spreads.
• Rash Distribution: Monkeypox lesions are more dense on the face and are present on the palms and soles, while Chickenpox lesions are denser on the trunk and absent on the palms and soles. Measles rash can vary widely.
• Lymphadenopathy: Present in Monkeypox but absent in Chickenpox and occasional in Measles.
• Death: The fatality rate for Monkeypox can be up to 10%, while it is rare for Chickenpox and varies widely for Measles.
  Prevention and Treatment

To prevent the spread of Monkeypox, it is important to:

• Avoid close contact with individuals showing symptoms of the disease.
• Practice good hand hygiene, especially after contact with infected individuals or animals.
• Avoid contact with animals that could harbor the virus, especially rodents and primates.
• Use personal protective equipment (PPE) when caring for someone infected.

Currently, there is no specific treatment for Monkeypox. However, outbreaks can be controlled. Supportive care and symptom management are essential, and some antiviral agents may be considered in severe cases. Vaccination against smallpox has been shown to be about 85% effective in preventing Monkeypox and may be considered for high-risk groups.

When to Seek Medical Attention

If you or someone you know develops symptoms such as fever, swollen lymph nodes, and a characteristic rash, it is important to seek medical advice immediately. Early detection and isolation can prevent the spread of the virus and reduce the severity of the disease.

Conclusion

Staying informed about Monkeypox and taking the necessary precautions can help prevent the spread of the virus. As with any public health concern, it is crucial to follow the guidelines provided by health authorities and seek medical attention if you suspect you or someone you know may have contracted the virus.

Images to Include:

1. Comparison Chart: Highlighting the differences between Monkeypox, Chickenpox, and Measles (use the infographic provided).
2. Transmission Infographic: Showing how Monkeypox is transmitted to humans and common symptoms (use the infographic provided).