Monkeypox is a viral zoonosis (a virus transmitted to humans from animals) with symptoms very similar to those seen in the past in smallpox patients, although it is clinically less severe. With the eradication of smallpox in 1980 and subsequent cessation of smallpox vaccination, monkeypox has emerged as the most important orthopoxvirus for public health. Monkeypox primarily occurs in Central and West Africa, often in proximity to tropical rainforests and has been increasingly appearing in urban areas. Animal hosts include a range of rodents and non-human primates.
Monkeypox: Top 10 Key facts You Should Know
Key facts about Monkeypox:
Monkeypox is caused by monkeypox virus, a member of the Orthopoxvirus genus in the family Poxviridae.
Monkeypox is a viral zoonotic disease.
It occurs primarily in tropical rainforest areas of Central and West Africa.
Monkeypox symptoms are fever, rash and swollen lymph nodes and may lead to a range of medical complications.
Monkeypox usually lasts from 2 to 4 weeks.
The case fatality ratio has been around 3-6%.
Monkeypox virus is transmitted by close contact with lesions, body fluids, respiratory droplets and contaminated materials such as bedding.
The clinical presentation of monkeypox resembles that of smallpox.
Monkeypox is less contagious than smallpox and causes less severe illness.
Smallpox Vaccines also provided protection against monkeypox.
