Monkey pox is caused by the monkey pox virus, a member of the Ortho pox virus genus which also includes smallpox. This virus was first identified in laboratory monkeys in 1958. The first case of human being impacted with monkey pox was reported in the Democratic Republic of Congo in 1970. Earlier, monkey pox was confined to the rural areas of Central and West Africa, where it was transmitted to humans through contact with infected animals like primates or rodents.
In the year 2024, the outbreak of the virus spread beyond its usual geographic boundaries, affecting countries outside Africa for the first time on such a large scale. The rapid increase in international cases is attributed to several factors, which include increased global travel, changes in human animal interaction, and possibly genetic mutations in the virus as well. The world is witnessing a significant resurgence of monkey pox, a viral disease primarily endemic to Central and West Africa. Beginning in the early January, the virus has captured global attention due to its unprecedented spread and impact Which resulted as a highlight on the need for effective public health. Responses and international cooperation to manage emerging infectious diseases.
The following are the symptoms and diagnosis of monkey pox:
Symptoms of monkey parks are somewhat similar to smallpox, but generally they are less sever. These symptoms include fever, headache, muscle aches, backache, swollen lymph nodes and a characteristic rash that progresses from flat spots to pus filled lesions. Rashes often begin on the face and then spread to other parts of the body.
Diagnosis of monkey pox can be done through laboratory testing, including PCR (Polymerase chain reaction) assays which detect the presence of the virus’s DNA.
The National and International Health Organizations, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have begun at the forefront of the response efforts. The following measures are being taken by these organizations such as Vaccination, Surveillance and Contact Tracing, and public awareness.
Looking forward, there’s a constant need for continued international collaboration to improve
disease surveillance and response strategies that combine scientific innovation, public
health expertise and international solidarity.
