New Delhi: The monkeypox virus or mpox virus is spreading at a quick pace across along the eastern border of Democratic Republic of Congo and it has been worrying health officials since it started to spread. The virus is known to cause lesions all over the body and it can also make patients fall very sick and it can be deadly as well. The current outbreak is being blamed upon sexual transmission, but as it turns out, the strain can also be passed on through skin to skin contact. Doctors say that the variant is likely to spread across countries and it is also being deemed as the most dangerous strain yet.
Earlier in 2022, mpox made headlines and was brought under control by vaccinating vulnerable people. However, citing poor access to treatment and medication in Congo, health officials said that the same can reach other countries as well. The disease can cross borders as patients with lesions can visit other countries becuse there are no controls.
Mpox in Africa over the years
Mpox, earlier known as monkeypox, has been on the rise in Congo for decades. Official figures from the World Health Organization (WHO) also show that there are approximately 8000 cases reported this year including 384 deaths and almost half of these occurred in children aged 15 years and less. The new strain, which is being considered particularly deadly, has also been detected in cities like Rwanda and Goma.
The WHO said in a statement, “a renewed risk of cross-border and international spread which may potentially lead to an increased risk of severe illness”.
Scientists also went on to say that the new strain is likely to spread more easily, thereby raising the risk of deaths in children and serious illness as well. Asymptomatic spread of the same between people who do not know the symptoms is also a major cause of concern. Although doctors are unsure of how fast the new strain can spread and if vaccines can offer protection. The same also needs trials to ascertain the efficacy of treatment options available.
What are the symptoms of monkeypox virus?
The symptoms of moneypox are:
Lesions
Fever
Headaches
Malaise
Muscle pain and exhaustion
Swollen lymph nodes
Chills
Nasal congestion, cough, sore throat
Earlier in 2022, mpox made headlines and was brought under control by vaccinating vulnerable people. However, citing poor access to treatment and medication in Congo, health officials said that the same can reach other countries as well. The disease can cross borders as patients with lesions can visit other countries becuse there are no controls. Health News Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
