Getting to Know Monkey Pox and How to Prevent It

Sahabat Hermina, monkey pox or better known as Monkeypox in English, is an infectious disease caused by the Monkeypox virus. Although monkeypox is not as common as human smallpox, the increase in cases of this disease has become a concern in several regions, especially in Central and West Africa. Monkeypox can affect humans and has symptoms similar to human smallpox. Therefore, it is important to recognize this disease and know how to prevent it.

Getting to Know Monkey Pox

• Reason

Monkeypox is caused by the Monkeypox virus, which belongs to the Orthopoxvirus family, the same as the virus that causes human smallpox (Varicella-Zoster virus). Monkeypox viruses usually originate from wild animals, especially rodents such as mice or squirrels, and are sometimes transmitted to humans through direct contact with these animals.

• Symptoms

Symptoms of monkeypox in humans are generally similar to human smallpox. Early symptoms include fever, weakness, headache, and swollen lymph nodes. Later, a skin rash appears, which can develop into fluid-filled blisters similar to human smallpox. Symptoms of monkey pox usually appear within 5-21 days after exposure to the virus.

• Deployment

Monkeypox can spread from human to human through direct contact with body fluids, blisters, or the sufferer's breath. This spread can occur through coughing, sneezing, or physical contact with an infected person.

How to Prevent Monkey Pox

Prevention is the most important step in dealing with monkey pox. Here are some steps you can take to prevent this disease:

• Avoid contact with wild animals: Especially rodents such as mice and squirrels, which are believed to be the natural reservoir of the Monkeypox virus.
• Avoid direct contact with sufferers: If you are caring for someone infected with monkeypox, be sure to wear personal protective equipment, such as gloves and a face mask, and wash your hands thoroughly after contact.
• Vaccination: Currently, the Monkeypox vaccine is not widely available. However, research continues to develop an effective vaccine.
• Good hygiene practices: Wash your hands regularly with soap and clean water, especially after interacting with pets or wild animals, and after caring for people with monkeypox.
• Isolate the patient: Isolating monkeypox sufferers from other people is an important step to prevent the spread of the disease. Also pay attention to regulations issued by local health authorities.
• Vigilant epidemiologists: It is important for governments and health authorities to monitor and respond quickly to monkeypox outbreaks. This includes contact tracing and quarantine if necessary.

So, it is important to remember that although monkey pox is a serious disease, human-to-human cases are rare. But awareness and vigilance are very important to prevent the spread of this disease. By following the preventative steps above, we can help protect ourselves and our communities from monkey pox. Stay healthy.