What are the symptoms of Mpox? The disease declared a global emergency by the WHO

The World Health Organization (WHO) declared on August 14 that the outbreak of Mpox (previously known as monkeypox) in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and its spread to neighboring countries constitutes a public health emergency of international concern.

This is the second time in two years that this infectious disease has been considered an international health threat, an alert that was initially raised in May last year after its spread was contained and the situation was considered to be under control.

What is Mpox and why has the WHO declared it a global emergency?

The WHO declared a state of emergency due to the increase in cases of Mpox in Africa, which has raised all the alarms to prevent the global spread of this disease, formerly known as monkeypox.

According to the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), Mpox is a viral zoonosis caused by the monkeypox virus, which belongs to the genus Orthopoxvirus, This includes the virus smallpox (causing smallpox).

Monkeypox is characterized by a rash or skin lesions that are usually concentrated on the face, palms of the hands, and soles of the feet.

Where did Mpox originate?

According to the PAHO website, Mpox was first detected in Africa in 1970. There are two genetically distinct strains of the Mpox virus: the Congo Basin strain (Central Africa) and the West African strain.

Human infections with the West African strain appear to cause less severe disease compared to the Congo Basin strain.

What are the symptoms and treatment of Mpox?

According to the specialized agency, there are no specific treatments against Mpox virus infection.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) noted that people with monkeypox typically have a rash that may appear on the hands, feet, chest, face, or mouth, or near the genitals, including the penis, testicles, labia and vagina, and anus.

The incubation period is 3 to 17 days. During this time, a person has no symptoms and may feel fine.

Symptoms of monkeypox usually resolve spontaneously. Clinical care of monkeypox should be optimized to relieve symptoms, manage complications, and prevent long-term sequelae.