Beware, Mpox is starting to flare up again!

Mpox, previously known as Monkeypox, is a disease caused by the monkeypox virus. This disease is similar to smallpox, and infection can occur from both humans and animals. The transmission from animals comes from scratches, bites, undercooked meat, and in humans, it can occur through skin lesions, droplets, from mother to fetus, and lastly, there is also transmission through items like clothing and bedding.

 

The signs and symptoms of Mpox are:  

1. Fever >38°C, rash after 1-3 days  

2. Severe headache  

3. Muscle pain  

4. Back pain  

5. Weakness  

6. Swelling of lymph nodes (in the neck, armpit, or groin)  

7.  Rash / Skin irritation. Rash usually starts one to three days after the fever. This rash or skin lesion starts as red spots resembling chickenpox, then develops into blisters filled with clear fluid, followed by blisters filled with pus, and eventually hardens or crusts over before falling off. The distribution of the rash starts from the head, denser on the face and limbs; it appears on the palms and soles.

 

The symptoms of Mpox usually last between 2 to 4 weeks and typically resolve on their own. However, in some individuals, it can lead to medical complications and death. Individuals with immune deficiency diseases are likely at risk of experiencing more severe symptoms.

 

Prevention to avoid Mpox disease includes:  

1. Practicing clean and healthy living habits  

2. Avoiding direct contact with rodents/primates  

3. Avoiding physical contact with infected individuals or contaminated materials  

4. Avoiding contact with wild animals or consuming meat hunted from wild animals  Travelers who have recently returned from areas affected by monkeypox should immediately seek medical attention if they experience symptoms.  

Health workers should use personal protective equipment when handling patients or animals that are sick.

 

For someone who is known to have Mpox, treatment is available in the form of antiviral medication that is administered to patients after consultation with a designated specialist. People with mpox should follow the advice from healthcare facilities. Mpox can heal and the symptoms can disappear on their own. It is important for anyone infected with mpox to drink enough water, eat well, and get enough sleep. Individuals who isolate themselves should maintain their mental health by engaging in activities they love using technology, exercising if they feel healthy enough, and seeking mental health support from local health services.