MPOX: What Do You Need to Know About the New Viral Threat That's Raising Global Alert?
- Alessandra Cardoso
- 10 de dez. de 2024
- 4 min de leitura
MPOX: Symptoms, Transmission and How to Protect Yourself and Your Family from This Emerging Disease?
MPOX, formerly known as “monkeypox,” is a rare viral disease that has recently gained notoriety due to outbreaks in several parts of the world. With cases on the rise and the need for awareness, it is essential to understand what MPOX is, how it is transmitted, what its symptoms are, and what treatments are available.
What is MPOX?
MPOX belongs to the group of orthopoxviruses , the same group that harbors the smallpox virus.
It was first discovered in 1958 in laboratory monkeys, which gave rise to the name "monkeypox." However, the name can be misleading, as monkeys are not the main carriers of this virus; in fact, it is more commonly found in small mammals, such as rodents.
How is MPOX transmitted?
In the case of MPOX, it can occur through direct contact with bodily fluids, skin lesions, or respiratory secretions from an infected person.
Additionally, the virus can spread through contact with contaminated objects, such as clothing, bedding or towels.
One important point is that unlike other viruses that spread quickly through the air like a breeze, MPOX requires a very close "whisper " to pass from one person to another. This means that transmission occurs primarily through close and prolonged contact.
In addition, animals can also transmit the virus. It is as if they were a "bridge" that connects the virus from nature to humans. In areas where MPOX is endemic, direct contact with infected animals or the consumption of undercooked meat from wild animals can also lead to infection.
What are the symptoms of MPOX?
Symptoms of MPOX can vary and appear at specific times. Initial symptoms usually appear between 5 and 21 days after infection and may include fever, severe headache, muscle aches, fatigue, and swollen lymph nodes, which are small "sentinel" glands throughout the body that swell when there is an infection.
After a few days, a new phase begins: the appearance of a rash. These rashes usually start on the face and then spread to other parts of the body, such as the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, and in some cases, the genitals. The rash goes through different stages, starting as red spots that evolve into blisters, then into pus-filled pustules, before finally turning into scabs that fall off. It is a gradual process that can last from two to four weeks.
How is MPOX diagnosed?
Think of diagnosing MPOX as a detective trying to solve a mystery. The “detective” here is the healthcare professional who examines the “clues” left by the virus, such as the person’s history of exposure, symptoms, and laboratory test results. The most commonly used test to confirm MPOX infection is PCR, which detects the virus’s genetic material in samples taken from skin lesions.
What are the treatments for MPOX?
Treatment for MPOX can be compared to “putting on a suit of armor” to help the body better defend itself against the virus. Treatment for MPOX is primarily focused on relieving symptoms.
There is no safe, proven treatment for MPOX virus infection.
The antiviral drugs tecovirimat, cidofovir, or brincidofovir may help, but they have not yet been studied as treatments for MPOX.
MSD Manual
Most cases of MPOX are mild and require only symptomatic treatment, such as the use of analgesics and antipyretics to relieve fever and pain, as well as proper care of skin lesions to avoid secondary infections.
Images taken from the MSD Manual website
The rash from MPOX resembles that of smallpox. Before the 2022 outbreak, the rash often started on the face and spread to other parts of the body, including the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. Skin lesions anywhere on the body were similar and clustered.
In the 2022 global outbreak, the rash often starts on or near the genitals, mouth, or other areas, is often painful, and may not spread or progress through common stages. MSD Manual.
In more severe cases, especially in people with compromised immune systems, antivirals may be used, such as Tecovirimat, which was initially developed for the treatment of smallpox and has shown some efficacy against the MPOX virus.
Prevention is the best strategy
When we think about prevention, we can imagine a "protective shield" that prevents the virus from coming into contact with our body.
Preventive measures, such as avoiding close contact with infected people, using personal protective equipment such as masks and gloves, and regularly cleaning hands with soap and water or alcohol gel, are effective strategies to reduce the risk of infection.
Additionally, there is a vaccine called JYNNEOS and ACAM2000 , which has been approved for the prevention of MPOX. Vaccination may be an option for people who have been exposed to the virus or who are at risk of exposure, such as healthcare workers or those who travel to areas where MPOX is endemic.
The importance of awareness and global response
The COVID-19 pandemic has taught us the importance of rapid and coordinated response to contain viral outbreaks. Similarly, the global response to MPOX has been critical to preventing the spread of the disease and minimizing its impact. Governments, health organizations, and communities are working together to raise awareness, promote vaccination, and ensure access to medical care for those who need it.
Conclusion
MPOX is a rare disease that requires attention due to its ability to spread through close contact and its similarity to smallpox. Knowing how it is transmitted, its symptoms and the treatments available is essential to ensure that everyone is prepared and can take the necessary steps to protect themselves.
This text is for informational purposes only and does not replace a consultation with a specialist. Sincerely, Alessandra Cardoso, nurse and therapist.
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