As the world continues to confront both emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases, Monkeypox (Mpox) has become a significant concern, especially as it spreads across various regions, including India. With several confirmed cases reported throughout the country, the Indian Health Ministry has stepped up efforts by issuing essential guidelines aimed at controlling the virus’s transmission. This article delves into the current scientific understanding of Mpox, outlines the Ministry’s preventive strategies, and offers practical tips for individuals to safeguard themselves and those around them.
What is Monkeypox (Mpox)?
Monkeypox is a viral infection caused by the monkeypox virus, which shares similarities with smallpox but tends to be less severe. The virus is a double-stranded DNA virus from the Orthopoxvirus genus in the Poxviridae family. It was first identified in 1958 in monkeys, which led to its name, although rodents are its primary source of transmission. The first recorded human cases occurred in 1970 in Central and West African countries, where the virus remains endemic.
Being a zoonotic virus, monkeypox can spread from animals to humans. However, human-to-human transmission is also a significant concern. The virus can be passed through direct contact with an infected individual’s skin lesions, body fluids, or respiratory droplets, as well as through contact with contaminated objects like bedding or clothing.
Symptoms of Monkeypox
The clinical progression of monkeypox typically begins with flu-like symptoms, followed by the development of a characteristic rash. This rash goes through distinct stages, including macules, papules, vesicles, pustules, and eventually scabs. Common symptoms associated with monkeypox include:
- Fever
- Headache
- Muscle aches
- Back pain
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Chills
- Fatigue or exhaustion
- Skin rashes, which start as flat lesions and then evolve into fluid-filled blisters before forming scabs. These rashes usually appear on the face first, then spread to other parts of the body.
Photo: WHO
The Situation in India
Monkeypox was historically confined to Africa, where it was considered endemic. However, since mid-2022, outbreaks have been reported in non-endemic regions, including India. Although the number of cases in India remains relatively low, the Indian Health Ministry has implemented guidelines aimed at reducing the risk of transmission and safeguarding public health.
Scientific Understanding of Monkeypox Transmission
Animal-to-Human Transmission: This occurs through direct contact with infected animals, particularly rodents, or by consuming undercooked meat from an infected animal.
Human-to-Human Transmission: Primarily spreads through direct contact with infected skin lesions or exposure to respiratory droplets. The risk increases with prolonged face-to-face interaction, making household members and healthcare workers more susceptible to infection.
Fomite Transmission: Contaminated objects such as bedding, clothing, or towels used by an infected individual can carry the virus, facilitating its spread to others.
Key Do’s from the Health Ministry
- Practice Personal Hygiene: Regularly wash your hands with soap and water, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, especially after contact with a potentially infected person or contaminated objects.
- Wear a Mask: Since monkeypox can spread through respiratory droplets, wearing a well-fitting mask in crowded or high-risk areas can help reduce transmission.
- Isolate Symptomatic Individuals: If someone shows symptoms of monkeypox, particularly rash and fever, they should immediately self-isolate and seek medical attention to prevent further spread.
- Use Gloves and PPE: Caregivers and healthcare workers, or anyone in close contact with an infected person, should wear disposable gloves, gowns, and masks to protect themselves from exposure.
- Cover Lesions: Individuals with visible lesions should keep them covered with gauze or clothing to minimize contact and reduce the risk of spreading the virus.
- Consult Healthcare Providers: If you suspect exposure or have been in close contact with someone infected, reach out to your healthcare provider for advice, testing, or further instructions.
- Disinfect Surfaces and Bedding: Regularly clean and disinfect surfaces, bedding, and personal items that may have been exposed to the virus to prevent contamination.
- Vaccination Awareness: The smallpox vaccine offers cross-protection against monkeypox due to the genetic similarities between the viruses. The Ministry advises high-risk groups, especially healthcare workers, to consider vaccination.
Key Don’ts from the Health Ministry
- Don’t Panic: While monkeypox is a cause for concern, it is typically a self-limiting disease, and most cases resolve with supportive care. Recent outbreaks have had a low fatality rate, especially in areas with adequate healthcare access.
- Avoid Close Contact: Refrain from physical interactions such as hugging, kissing, or any close contact with individuals exhibiting symptoms of monkeypox.
- Don’t Share Personal Items: Avoid sharing personal belongings like clothing, bedding, or towels with those who have symptoms or are suspected of being infected.
- Don’t Consume Undercooked Meat: Since the virus can be transmitted from animals to humans, avoid consuming undercooked or raw animal products, particularly from animals in affected areas.
- Don’t Delay Medical Attention: If you develop symptoms like fever, body aches, or a rash, seek medical care immediately. Early detection can prevent severe illness and help limit the spread of the virus.
- Don’t Ignore Quarantine Recommendations: If identified as a contact of a confirmed case, strictly follow quarantine guidelines to help contain the virus and protect the community.
- Avoid Travel to Affected Regions: Unless absolutely necessary, avoid traveling to regions experiencing active monkeypox outbreaks. If travel is unavoidable, adhere to all precautionary measures advised by the Ministry and WHO.
Global Response and Vaccination
The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared monkeypox a public health emergency of international concern. Vaccination campaigns using the modified vaccinia Ankara (MVA) vaccine are being implemented in some countries, though availability remains limited in India. The Indian Health Ministry is actively exploring vaccine options and collaborating with international agencies to secure doses, particularly for high-risk groups.
Conclusion
Monkeypox is a global health concern that requires careful attention and proactive measures. India’s Health Ministry has provided clear guidelines to help control the spread of the virus, emphasizing the importance of personal hygiene, avoiding close contact with infected individuals, and seeking prompt medical care. With public cooperation and adherence to these guidelines, the spread of Mpox in India can be effectively contained.
It is essential to stay informed, vigilant, and prepared as the situation evolves. By following the Ministry’s recommendations and keeping up to date with new developments, we can protect ourselves and our communities from the threat of monkeypox.
Stay safe, stay informed.