25/05/2025
Mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) is a viral disease caused by the mpox virus, a member of the Orthopoxvirus genus, which also includes the viruses that cause smallpox and cowpox.
Key Facts about Mpox:
Transmission:
Mpox spreads through:
Close contact with infected people or animals.
Exposure to body fluids, skin lesions, or respiratory droplets.
Contaminated objects like bedding, clothing, or surfaces.
Symptoms:
Fever
Headache
Muscle aches
Swollen lymph nodes
Fatigue
Rash (usually starts on the face, then spreads to other parts of the body, including the ge****ls)
Incubation Period: 5 to 21 days (usually 6–13 days)
Severity:
Most cases are mild and self-limiting.
Severe cases can occur, especially in children, immunocompromised individuals, or those with comorbidities.
Prevention:
Avoid close contact with infected individuals or animals.
Practice good hygiene and use personal protective equipment (PPE) in healthcare settings.
Vaccination with smallpox vaccines (like MVA-BN, also known as Jynneos) can help prevent mpox.
Treatment:
Supportive care is the mainstay.
Antiviral drugs like tecovirimat (TPOXX) may be used in severe cases or for high-risk individuals.