What is Mpox? About Monkeypox

 Why in News ?Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, has been in the news due to its emergence as a significant health concern in recent times.

The mpox or monkeypox outbreak has affected over 115 countries, and is the worst in the Democratic Republic of Congo and neighbouring countries.

What is Mpox?

Mpox is a viral infection caused by the mpox virus, a member of the Orthopoxvirus genus, which also includes the variola virus (which causes smallpox) and the vaccinia virus (used in smallpox vaccines). Mpox is characterized by symptoms similar to smallpox but generally less severe.

History

• First Identified: Mpox was first identified in laboratory monkeys in 1958, hence its name. The first human case was reported in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) in 1970.
• Endemic Regions: Traditionally, mpox was considered endemic to Central and West Africa, with outbreaks occurring periodically in these regions.
• Global Spread: In 2022, there was a significant global outbreak, with cases reported in countries outside the traditional endemic regions, including Europe, North America, and parts of Asia. This spread led to increased international concern and a global health response.

Symptoms

Mpox symptoms are similar to smallpox but usually milder. They include:

• Fever
• Headache
• Muscle aches
• Backache
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Chills
• Exhaustion
• A rash that typically starts on the face and then spreads to other parts of the body

Variants

Mpox has different genetic clades or variants. The two primary clades are:

1. Central African (Congo Basin) Clade: Generally more severe and has a higher mortality rate.
2. West African Clade: Typically milder and has a lower mortality rate.

The 2022 outbreak highlighted the presence of both clades in new regions, adding complexity to the response efforts.

Vaccination

 Two vaccines currently in use for small pox and  Mpox namely, (JYNNEOS vaccine and ACAM2000) are recommended by WHO’s Strategic Advisory Group of Experts on Immunization,

Current Status

The global health response to mpox involves monitoring and controlling outbreaks, improving vaccination coverage, and increasing awareness. International health organizations, including the World Health Organization (WHO), have been actively involved in managing and providing guidance on mpox.