17/08/2024
Monkeypox is rare, viral disease caused by the monkeypox virus, which belongs to the Orthopoxvirus genus, similar to smallpox. Here's an overview
Transmission:
- Direct contact with infected animals (rodents, primates) or humans
- Contact with contaminated bodily fluids (blood, saliva, pus)
- Indirect contact through contaminated surfaces or objects
- Airborne transmission through respiratory droplets (rare)
Early Symptoms:
- Fever, Headache, Muscle aches, Fatigue, Swollen lymph nodes, Rash:
Starts as flat, red spots or patches
Develops into pus-filled blisters or vesicles
Crusts over and falls off, leaving scars
Typically appears on the face, palms, and soles, but can spread to other areas
Other Symptoms:
Chills Sweating, Sore throat ,Cough ,Shortness of breath
- Abdominal pain ,Diarrhea, Vomiting
Severe Symptoms:
Respiratory distress
Septicemia (blood infection)
Encephalitis (brain inflammation)
-Coagulopathy (blood clotting disorders)
Incubation Period
Typically 10-14 days, but can range from 5-21 days
Duration of Illness:
Usually 2-4 weeks, but can last up to 6 weeks
Complications:
- Secondary bacterial infections
- Pneumonia
- Encephalitis
- Death (rare, but more common in severe cases or immunocompromised individuals
Transmission:
- Direct contact with infected animals (rodents, primates) or humans
- Contact with contaminated bodily fluids (blood, saliva, pus)
- Indirect contact through contaminated surfaces or objects
- Airborne transmission through respiratory droplets (rare)
Precautions:
Avoid contact with infected animals or humans
Wear personal protective equipment (PPE) like masks, gloves, and gowns
Practice good hygiene (handwashing, disinfection)
Avoid touching eyes, nose, or mouth
Investigations for confirmation:
Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or real-time PCR to detect viral DNA
- Virus isolation from lesions or bodily fluids
- Serology tests (IgM, IgG) to detect antibodies
- Histopathological examination of skin lesions
Management steps:
1. Isolation: Isolate infected individuals to prevent transmission
2. Supportive care: Manage symptoms, provide hydration, and relieve pain
3. Antiviral therapy: Use medications like ,tecovirimat, or cidofovir
4. Vaccination: Use smallpox vaccine (ACAM2000) for post-exposure prophylaxis
5. Contact tracing: Identify and monitor individuals who had contact with the infected person
Additional measures:
Report suspected cases to public health authorities
Conduct outbreak investigations
Implement infection control measures in healthcare settings.