Cases of patients experiencing monkey pox are increasing, based on reports from the Indonesian Ministry of Health. The number of patients infected with this disease has reached 29. The data was taken on November 1, 2023. They have undergone a period of isolation until now because no one has recovered. Initially, there were 27 cases of monkey pox on October 30, 2023. However, there have been two additional patients since November 2023. Both patients came from DKI Jakarta. The public should start to know more about this disease.
About Monkey Pox
Monkeypox is a rare viral disease that belongs to the same family of viruses as smallpox and the chickenpox-causing varicella-zoster virus. Although it shares similarities with smallpox, monkeypox is generally less severe in humans. Here’s an overview of monkeypox in 400 words:
Origin:
Monkeypox was first identified in monkeys in Africa in the 1950s, and the virus got its name from this initial discovery. The disease can be transmitted to humans through the handling of infected animals, particularly rodents.
Transmission of Monkey Pox:
Human-to-human transmission can occur through respiratory droplets, direct contact with the skin lesions or bodily fluids of an infected person, or through fomites (inanimate objects that carry the virus). It is primarily found in central and western African countries.
Symptoms:
The initial symptoms of monkeypox are similar to those of other viral illnesses and include fever, headaches, muscle aches, and fatigue. Later, a rash develops, which often progresses to pustules (fluid-filled lesions) that can be similar to chickenpox but typically less severe.
Severity of Monkey Pox:
While monkeypox is generally a self-limiting disease, severe cases can occur, especially in individuals with weakened immune systems. These severe cases may involve pneumonia, encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), and other complications.
Treatment:
There is no specific antiviral treatment for monkeypox. Supportive care, such as pain relief and management of complications, is the primary approach. Vaccination against smallpox may provide some cross-protection against monkeypox.
Prevention of Monkey Pox:
Preventing monkeypox primarily involves public health measures such as isolating infected individuals, contact tracing, and vaccination. Educating people in affected areas about the risks associated with handling wild animals can also help reduce transmission.
Vaccines:
An investigational monkeypox vaccine was developed, which has shown some promise in reducing the risk of infection. This vaccine is primarily intended for people at high risk, such as healthcare workers or researchers who come into contact with the virus.
Outbreaks:
Outbreaks of monkeypox occur sporadically in Central and West Africa. Efforts to monitor and control these outbreaks are essential to preventing their spread.
Global Concerns: Monkeypox is considered a potential emerging infectious disease of concern, particularly due to its ability to spread from person to person. International health organizations closely monitor and respond to outbreaks, and research is ongoing to better understand the virus and develop effective control measures.
In summary, monkeypox is a rare viral disease that mainly affects regions in central and west Africa. While it is generally less severe than smallpox, it can still cause significant health issues, especially in immunocompromised individuals. Public health measures, vaccination, and research efforts play a crucial role in controlling and preventing the spread of the virus.