How to Protect Yourself Against Mpox and Understand Your Risk Level?

11/28/2024

What is Mpox, Previously Known as Monkeypox? 

Mpox is a viral infection induced by a virus, which may result in a rash and flu-like symptoms. This virus, previously known as monkeypox, usually transmits through close contact. The rash caused by this virus is identical to the one brought on by a similar virus, such as smallpox. Mpox, like many viral diseases, has various types known as "clades." Two prominent types or clades of this virus are Clade 1 and Clade 2.

Mpox has been endemic in various parts of Africa for years, and its cases are reported on a regular basis. However, outbreaks of this virus often happen in other parts of the world as well. An outbreak is a term used to describe a sudden increase in the number of cases of a particular condition.

The cases of Clade II have been reported in the UK since the year 2022. On the other hand, the cases related to Clade 1 were recognized only in five countries of central Africa earlier, but now the cases have been increasing and spreading across east and central Africa. Cases related to this condition have also been detected outside of Africa, such as in the UK. However, the cases related to it were reported in a single house in the UK.

Anyone can develop mpox, regardless of age, sex, and health condition, either clade of this virus. However, this is usually transmitted through

• Close contact, such as intimate and sexual contact with people diagnosed with this virus

• Contact with infected materials includes bedsheets, towels, brushes, etc

• Being in touch with infected animals

This doesn’t transmit from one person to another until close contact is established.

What are the Symptoms of Mpox Virus? 

The symptoms of this medical condition usually start within 21 days after being exposed to the virus. Mpox symptoms dwell generally for 2 to 4 weeks, but it may last longer in people living with a weakened immune system. The following are the common symptoms of the Mpox virus: 

• Rash 

• Fever 

• Back pain 

• Low energy 

• Sore throat 

• Headache 

• Muscle aches 

• Swollen lymph nodes.  

The first symptom of this virus in some people could be a rash, while others may develop signs such as fever, sore throat, and muscle aches.

The rash associated with mpox usually starts on the face and gradually transmits to the other parts of the body. Besides, it may also start on the body parts exposed to the virus, such as the genitals. Initially, It may look like a flat sore but steadily becomes a blister filled with liquid, which may cause itching and pain. Once the rash starts recovering, the lesions on the skin start drying and eventually fall off.

Some people develop one or a few lesions on the skin. On the other hand, other people may come across hundreds of lesions across the body. You may see them anywhere in the body, such as:

• Soles of the feet

• Palms of the hand

• Groin

• Genital areas

• Anus

• Face

• Mouth

• Throat

Some people with mpox clade I and II may also come across the following symptoms: 

• Painful swelling of their rectum

• Trouble and pain while swallowing and urinating

This virus is highly contagious, which means it can easily pass from one person to another. If you are diagnosed with it, you should avoid close contact with people until all your sores have completely recovered and the new skin has taken shape. Some individuals may even develop this condition without any apparent symptoms. A few cases have been confirmed of its spread from people not showing any evident symptoms.

The chances of coming across serious complications and mortality are higher for people living with HIV, pregnant women, kids, and individuals with compromised immune systems.

Some individuals living with the mpox virus may get very sick. The skin may get infected with bacteria, resulting in severe skin damage and abscesses. In addition to this, the other serious complications you may stumble upon such as corneal infection, pneumonia, severe diarrhea, sepsis, etc. As a result, it can be life-threatening as well in some cases. 

Is there any Treatment for Clade I Mpox?

The symptoms of this virus may range from a few spots on the body to serious illnesses. Before you pick up any treatment, please check with your doctor. The doctor will find the right treatment based on your unique needs and may consist of admission to the specialist hospital.

The following people are at higher risk of coming across serious mpox disease and death:

• Newborn babies

• Pregnant women

• People with weakened immune systems

• Children 

Organizations such as the UKHSA, NHS, and academic partners are working together in order to know the precise characteristics of the pathogen and assess the risk to our health.

Is there any Travel Advice for People? 

At present, the risk of coming across this virus is low for most travelers, and most people are advised to opt for the vaccination against mpox. 

If you are traveling to one of those areas affected by the ongoing outbreak, you are required to abide by a number of safeguards in order to protect yourself from the virus. You can mitigate your chances of developing this virus by avoiding touch or sexual contact, especially with people living with a rash.

In order to know the nations where cases of mpox have been reported, you can visit the Travel Health Pro site. If you are flying to a country with an ongoing outbreak, make sure to go through the latest travel advice given by the FCDO. 

You can get advice from your GP or a travel health clinic if traveling to one of the affected countries.

The Takeaway:

Currently, the cases associated with it are rare in the US and don’t spread easily until you establish close contact with the person infected with either strain of mpox. However, if you continue to have a new rash or other symptoms, seeking medical advice can be of great help. If you are more susceptible to developing it, take the necessary precautions and steps to mitigate the overall risk. Anyone can catch this virus regardless of their health status, age, and sex; therefore, if you are traveling to a country with the highest number of cases or come back from such a country, exercise important precautions such as avoiding close contact with people and self-isolation.

FAQs: 

1. What are the precautions for mpox isolation?

If you have tested positive for mpox virus, abide by the following precautions during isolation to contain the spread:

• Refrain from building close contact with any people, including sexual contact

• Clean and wash your hands as often as possible with water and soap

• Stick to the guidelines given by the healthcare provider

• Abstain from wearing contact lenses

2. How can mpox be treated?

At present, there is no specific treatment available for the management of mpox. If you get very sick as a result of this virus, you might be suggested to take antiviral medications such as tecovirimat or cidofovir.  If you are pregnant or immunocompromised, you must seek medical attention to know the correct treatment. 

3. What are the first signs of monkeypox? 

The early signs of monkeypox usually result in flu-like symptoms such as:

• Exhaustion

• Fever

• Headache

• Muscle ache

• Swollen lymph nodes

• Backache

4. What are the three types of isolation precautions for mpox?

Kindly stick to the following precautions until the infection has been treated completely:

• Maintain a distance from people and pets.

• Avoid engaging in sexual activity.

• Don’t share your personal items with anyone, such as towels, bedsheets, glasses, etc.

• Abstain from shaving off the rash-covered area as it can transmit the virus to other areas.

• Don’t wear contact lenses.