The disease can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background. It spreads through contact with infected individuals, animals, or contaminated materials. Human-to-human transmission often happens through direct physical contact, including kissing, sex, or even simply touching an infected person’s skin or clothing. It’s also possible for someone to contract the virus through contact with infected animals. People who hunt, skin, or cook animals, particularly in regions where the virus is prevalent, may be at a higher risk. Additionally, contaminated materials such as bedding, clothing, or needles can carry the virus, leading to transmission. Pregnant individuals are also at risk of passing the virus to their unborn children.
The virus that causes mpox belongs to the Orthopoxvirus genus in the Poxviridae family, which also includes variola (the virus responsible for smallpox), cowpox, and vaccinia viruses. Scientists have identified two main genetic clades of the virus: clade I and clade II. Mpox was first discovered in 1958 in monkeys kept for research purposes in Denmark, giving rise to the name “monkeypox.” The first human case was recorded in 1970 when a nine-month-old boy in the Democratic Republic of Congo contracted the virus.
Although the virus is most commonly found in parts of Central and West Africa, cases outside of Africa have also been reported, especially following the global outbreak in 2022–2023. The natural reservoir of the virus remains a mystery, but various small mammals, including squirrels and monkeys, appear to be susceptible to infection. Some researchers speculate that rodents may play a role in spreading the virus in the wild, though more studies are needed to confirm this.
If you suspect you have contracted mpox, it’s important to take immediate action to reduce the risk of spreading the virus to others. Inform anyone you have been in close contact with recently, so they can monitor for symptoms. People with mpox should stay home and avoid contact with others until all scabs from the rash have fallen off and new skin has formed. Covering any lesions and wearing a well-fitting mask around others can help limit transmission. It’s also essential to avoid physical contact with others while infectious.
Although mpox is often not as severe as other diseases caused by viruses in the Poxviridae family, it can still cause discomfort and complications for some individuals. With the proper precautions and care, most people will recover from mpox without long-term effects. However, it’s crucial to stay vigilant and aware of the symptoms and transmission methods to help prevent further outbreaks, particularly in areas where the virus is more common.
Understanding how mpox spreads, recognizing its symptoms, and taking responsible actions can help protect communities worldwide from this increasingly recognized disease.
Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is an infectious disease caused by the monkeypox virus. This illness can be distressing and painful, characterized by symptoms like a rash, fever, and swollen lymph nodes. While most individuals recover with proper care, some may experience severe illness.
The disease can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background. It spreads through contact with infected individuals, animals, or contaminated materials. Human-to-human transmission often happens through direct physical contact, including kissing, sex, or even simply touching an infected person’s skin or clothing. It’s also possible for someone to contract the virus through contact with infected animals. People who hunt, skin, or cook animals, particularly in regions where the virus is prevalent, may be at a higher risk. Additionally, contaminated materials such as bedding, clothing, or needles can carry the virus, leading to transmission. Pregnant individuals are also at risk of passing the virus to their unborn children.
The virus that causes mpox belongs to the Orthopoxvirus genus in the Poxviridae family, which also includes variola (the virus responsible for smallpox), cowpox, and vaccinia viruses. Scientists have identified two main genetic clades of the virus: clade I and clade II. Mpox was first discovered in 1958 in monkeys kept for research purposes in Denmark, giving rise to the name “monkeypox.” The first human case was recorded in 1970 when a nine-month-old boy in the Democratic Republic of Congo contracted the virus.
Although the virus is most commonly found in parts of Central and West Africa, cases outside of Africa have also been reported, especially following the global outbreak in 2022–2023. The natural reservoir of the virus remains a mystery, but various small mammals, including squirrels and monkeys, appear to be susceptible to infection. Some researchers speculate that rodents may play a role in spreading the virus in the wild, though more studies are needed to confirm this.
If you suspect you have contracted mpox, it’s important to take immediate action to reduce the risk of spreading the virus to others. Inform anyone you have been in close contact with recently, so they can monitor for symptoms. People with mpox should stay home and avoid contact with others until all scabs from the rash have fallen off and new skin has formed. Covering any lesions and wearing a well-fitting mask around others can help limit transmission. It’s also essential to avoid physical contact with others while infectious.
Although mpox is often not as severe as other diseases caused by viruses in the Poxviridae family, it can still cause discomfort and complications for some individuals. With the proper precautions and care, most people will recover from mpox without long-term effects. However, it’s crucial to stay vigilant and aware of the symptoms and transmission methods to help prevent further outbreaks, particularly in areas where the virus is more common.
Understanding how mpox spreads, recognizing its symptoms, and taking responsible actions can help protect communities worldwide from this increasingly recognized disease.
