Monkeypox Outbreak: A Comprehensive Guide
Chronology and Epidemiology
The 2022-2023 mpox (monkeypox) outbreak began in May 2022, with cases reported in countries where the disease is not typically found.
As of December 15, 2023, over 87,000 cases have been reported across 110 countries.
The World Health Organization (WHO) declared the outbreak a global health emergency in July 2022.
Symptoms and Transmission
Symptoms
Mpox typically manifests within one to two weeks of exposure.
Initial symptoms include fever and other non-specific symptoms.
A characteristic rash with lesions typically follows, lasting for 2-4 weeks.
Transmission
Mpox is spread through close contact with an infected person's lesions or respiratory droplets.
Sexual contact is the primary mode of transmission in the current outbreak.
Other modes of transmission include contact with contaminated objects or animals.
Global Response
WHO Declaration
The WHO declared the ongoing mpox outbreak in Africa a global health emergency on Wednesday.
This marks the second time since 2022 that mpox has been declared a global health emergency.
Outbreak Declared Waning
The WHO reported a waning in the mpox outbreak during the weeks of December 2 to December 15, 2023.
However, the outbreak remains a concern in certain regions, particularly in Africa.
2023 Outbreak in Democratic Republic of Congo
A new outbreak of mpox was reported in the Democratic Republic of Congo in 2023.
This outbreak has been declared a public health emergency of international concern by the WHO.
The risk of international spread is considered high.
Prevention and Treatment
Prevention
Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent mpox.
Avoiding close contact with infected individuals and contaminated materials can also reduce the risk of infection.
Treatment
There is no specific treatment for mpox.
Treatment focuses on supportive care, such as managing symptoms and preventing complications.
Antiviral medications may be used in severe cases.
Sources
- World Health Organization: Monkeypox Outbreak
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Monkeypox
- National Institutes of Health: NIH Researchers Identify Multiple Mpox Virus Variants Responsible for Outbreak
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