What Is Mpox? Understanding the Emerging Health Threat

In recent times, the global community has been on high alert as a new health threat has emerged—mpox. While the world has been focused on the COVID-19 pandemic, other viruses have continued to spread, and mpox has become a concern for health professionals and the general public alike. But what exactly is mpox, and why is it important to be aware of this disease?

Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a viral disease caused by the monkeypox virus, which belongs to the Orthopoxvirus genus in the family Poxviridae. It is closely related to the virus that causes smallpox, but mpox is generally less severe. The disease was first discovered in 1958 when outbreaks occurred in monkeys kept for research, hence the name. However, it was later identified in humans in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Mpox is primarily a zoonotic disease, meaning it is transmitted from animals to humans. The virus can be spread to humans through direct contact with the blood, bodily fluids, or cutaneous or mucosal lesions of infected animals. In Africa, evidence of monkeypox virus infection has been found in many animals, including rope squirrels, tree squirrels, Gambian pouched rats, dormice, and primates.

Human-to-human transmission is also possible, though it requires close contact. This can occur through respiratory droplets, contact with body fluids, or contact with contaminated objects like bedding. The symptoms of mpox in humans are similar to those of smallpox but generally milder. They include fever, intense headache, muscle aches, back pain, low energy, and swollen lymph nodes, followed by a rash. The rash typically starts on the face and then spreads to other parts of the body. The lesions progress through stages—from macules to papules, vesicles, pustules, and finally, scabs.

While mpox has been known for decades, recent years have seen a rise in cases outside of Africa, raising concerns about its potential spread and impact on global health. The increase in human-to-human transmission, particularly in regions where the virus was previously uncommon, has prompted a strong response from health authorities.

Public health measures include surveillance of suspected cases, laboratory confirmation of the virus, and the isolation of infected individuals to prevent further spread. Vaccination against smallpox has been found to be effective in preventing monkeypox, leading some countries to consider reintroducing the vaccine, especially for healthcare workers and those at high risk.