Explainer: Understanding MPox— Symptoms,  Prevention, And Everything You Need To Know

New Delhi. Many countries worldwide have issued advisories regarding MPox (also called monkeypox). In India, several states including UP, Rajasthan, and Chhattisgarh have issued their advisories, while the central government is closely monitoring the situation.

This disease, which originated in  African countries, has now spread to Sweden, the Philippines, and Pakistan. The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared it a public health emergency. The presence of MPox in neighbouring Pakistan has increased India’s concern.

In 2022, WHO renamed monkeypox to MPox. The virus typically spreads from animals to humans and then from person to person. Those with weakened immune systems, such as children and pregnant women, are at higher risk and need to be extra cautious.

Symptoms of MPox

Vishvas News reviewed the WHO’s report and consulted several doctors. According to their insights, the following symptoms can be seen in an MPox patient.

• The patient may get a fever.
• There may be red rashes on the body. If left untreated, these may even turn into wounds.
• The patient may have headaches, muscle pain, and back pain.
• The patient may feel cold.
• Excessive fatigue and weakness may also be observed.
• Apart from this, swelling in the lymph nodes is also a common symptom.
• The symptoms may persist for 2-4 weeks.

Keep these things in mind with the patient

Professor Dr Neeraj Nischal, Department of Medicine, AIIMS Delhi, explained that if someone gets infected with MPox, it is crucial to keep the following points in mind:

• Keep the patient isolated in the hospital or/in a separate room at home.
• The patient should wear a triple-layer mask.
• Keep wounds covered.
• Allow the patient to meet others only after the wounds heal completely.

Dr DK Gupta, Chairman- Felix Hospital, Noida, explained that the MPox spreads from infected animals to humans and later, person to person. There is no need to panic as it can be cured with timely treatment.

History of the virus 

The origin of MPox dates back to 1958, when a laboratory in Denmark observed rashes on monkeys kept for vaccine trials. These monkeys, imported from Malaysia, led to the discovery of a new virus, which was subsequently named monkeypox. The first human case was identified In 1970 in a 9-month-old child in Congo, who tested positive for the monkeypox virus.

Awareness is the only protection

To prevent MPox, vigilance and awareness are crucial. Educating people about this disease can significantly help in controlling its spread. Several measures can be implemented to prevent MPox virus infection, some of them are listed below:

• Avoid touching any items that may have been in contact with an infected person, such as bedding, clothing, etc.
• Isolate infected patients.
• Wash hands thoroughly after contact with infected animals or humans.
• Use alcohol-based hand sanitiser.
• Use appropriate personal protective equipment.
• Maintain cleanliness around you.
• Consult a doctor immediately if you notice any symptoms of the disease. Do not self-treat.

Disclaimer: This article has been written with insights from medical experts. The information provided is for awareness only. Please consult your doctor if you experience symptoms of MPox.