W.H.O declares Monkeypox a Global Health Emergency?
On September 28th, 2018, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared monkeypox a global health emergency. This move comes after an outbreak of the disease in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), which has killed more than 100 people.
Why Is Monkeypox Called Monkeypox
An uncommon viral illness called monkeypox resembles smallpox. The fact that the illness was initially identified in laboratory monkeys is how it got its name. However, humans can also contract monkeypox.
Africa is home to the
monkeypox virus, which primarily affects rural areas. Contact with infected
animals, such as monkeys, rats, and squirrels, allows the virus to spread.
Additionally, HIV can be passed from one person to another by close contacts,
such as touching or sharing bedding with an infected individual.
The rash initially appears as little pimples that develop into blisters over time. In some circumstances, monkeypox can be fatal, especially in young children and those with weakened immune systems.
![]() |
MonkeyPox |
Latest news on Monkeypox
Monkeypox has been categorized as a worldwide health emergency by the World Health Organization (WHO). This is an uncommon, severe illness that can be fatal to people. Monkeys, chimpanzees, and squirrels are among the creatures that can contract the viral infection known as "monkeypox." Through contact with the infected animals or their bodily fluids, it can be transmitted to people. Most often, the disease is prevalent in Central and West Africa.
Monkeypox can be
challenging to diagnose and has no specific therapy. The disease can be
prevented most effectively by abstaining from contact with diseased animals and
maintaining proper hygiene. See a doctor right away if you believe you may have
been exposed to monkeypox.
Monkeypox has been classified as
a Public Health Emergency of International Concern by the World Health
Organization (WHO), which has raised the stakes. Nearly 70 nations have been
affected by the virus, including Pakistan, where there have only been limited instances
so far.
According to Andy Seale, advisor,
HIV, Hepatitis and STI Programs, WHO, monkeypox is now affecting populations
of all ages and socioeconomic levels in previously impacted nations, mostly in
West Africa.
Mr. Seale continued, saying that
instances are "primarily focused on men" in nations where the monkeypox
virus is a recent problem. According to Mr. Seale, the majority of those
infected with the virus have been determined to be gay and bisexual men who have
had sex with other men.
The advisor also mentioned that
there have been a few occurrences documented in women and children, though they
are rare. Mr. Seale has stressed, though, that anyone who comes into contact
with the virus can become infected.
Mr. Seale stated that there are
various ways for the virus to be transmitted in order to explain why this
particular population is more vulnerable than others. Kissing, handling
contaminated objects like bed linen, or skin-to-skin contact are a few
examples. As Mr. Seale said, "What we know and what the evidence tells us
is that sexual networks among communities of homosexual, bisexual, and other
males who have sex with men have had a role in transmitting the virus in the
context of this outbreak.
![]() |
What you need to know about MonkeyPox |
He continued by saying that early
on in the pandemic, it appeared that foreign travel helped the monkeypox virus
spread.
Signs and Symptoms of Monkeypox
A rare viral infection called monkeypox results in a blistering rash. It resembles smallpox but typically has much milder symptoms. There are monkeypox viruses in Asia and Africa. It is believed that infected animals can transmit it to humans.
The first signs and
symptoms of monkeypox include:
- Ø
Fever
- Ø
Headache
- Ø
Muscle
aches
- Ø
Chills
- Ø
Loss
of appetite
- Ø
Swollen
lymph nodes
TREATMENT
There is no specific
treatment for monkeypox and no vaccine available to prevent it. However,
smallpox vaccines can offer some protection against monkeypox. The World
Health Organization has declared monkeypox a global health emergency due to
the recent outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo. This is the first time
WHO has made such a declaration for monkeypox.
![]() |
Treatment of MOnkeypox |
TAKEAWAY:
Being a Public Health expert, I urge the community not to stigmatize or assign blame for the disease's spread to any one group of people or community. As per Scientists, most monkeypox patients will experience a brief and moderate infection, but some may experience a severe case that necessitates hospitalization.
1 Comments
Good effort I must praise it
ReplyDeletePlease do let me know if you need any further assistance