Mpox: An Overview of the Disease, Symptoms, Prevention, and Vaccination Strategies
- Post by: Irjar Jira
- September 26, 2024
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Abstract
Mpox, formerly known as Monkeypox, is a viral zoonotic disease that has garnered global attention due to recent outbreaks beyond its traditional endemic regions. This article provides a comprehensive overview of Mpox, including its definition, symptoms, prevention strategies, and available vaccines. It also discusses insights from recent research and expert opinions to understand the challenges and future directions in managing this emerging public health concern.
Introduction
Mpox is a rare but potentially serious viral illness caused by the Monkeypox virus, a member of the Orthopoxvirus genus. First identified in 1958 among laboratory monkeys, the first human case was recorded in the Democratic Republic of Congo in 1970 (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2022). Historically confined to Central and West Africa, Mpox has recently seen outbreaks in non-endemic countries, raising concerns about its global health implications.
Visit the CDC’s Mpox page for more information
Definition and Description
Mpox is a zoonotic disease, meaning it can be transmitted from animals to humans. It shares similarities with smallpox but is clinically less severe. The virus can spread through direct contact with bodily fluids, lesion material, or indirect contact with lesion material, such as through contaminated clothing or linens (World Health Organization [WHO], 2023).
Learn more about Mpox transmission from the WHO
Symptoms
The incubation period of Mpox is typically 6 to 13 days but can range from 5 to 21 days. The infection can be divided into two phases:
- Invasion Period (0–5 days):
- Fever
- Intense headache
- Lymphadenopathy (swollen lymph nodes)
- Back pain
- Myalgia (muscle aches)
- Asthenia (profound weakness)
- Skin Eruption Period (within 1–3 days after fever onset):
- Rash that progresses from macules to papules, vesicles, pustules, and scabs
- Lesions typically appear on the face and extremities rather than the trunk
Lymphadenopathy is a distinctive feature of Mpox compared to other similar diseases like smallpox and chickenpox (WHO, 2023).
Prevention
Preventing Mpox involves a combination of measures aimed at reducing human exposure to the virus:
- Avoid Contact with Infected Animals: Limit exposure to animals that could harbor the virus, especially in regions where Mpox is endemic.
- Practice Good Hygiene: Regular handwashing with soap and water or using alcohol-based hand sanitizers.
- Use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Healthcare workers should use appropriate PPE when caring for patients.
- Isolation of Infected Individuals: Prompt identification and isolation of patients can prevent further transmission.
- Safe Handling of Patient Materials: Proper disinfection and disposal of contaminated materials (CDC, 2022).
CDC Guidelines on Mpox Prevention
Vaccines
Vaccination is a critical tool in preventing Mpox. The smallpox vaccine provides cross-protection against Mpox due to the genetic similarities between the two viruses. Two vaccines are primarily used:
- ACAM2000: A second-generation smallpox vaccine that can be used for Mpox but has certain side effects.
- JYNNEOS (Imvamune or Imvanex): A third-generation, non-replicating vaccine specifically approved for preventing Mpox and smallpox (U.S. Food and Drug Administration [FDA], 2019).
The FDA approved JYNNEOS in 2019, recognizing its role in Mpox prevention.
Details on JYNNEOS Vaccine from the FDA
Expert Opinions and Research Insights
Recent research emphasizes the need for heightened surveillance and rapid response mechanisms. According to Breman and Henderson (2020), understanding the epidemiology of Mpox is crucial for implementing effective control measures.
Sklenovská and Van Ranst (2018) highlight that the resurgence of Mpox cases underscores the waning immunity in populations following the cessation of smallpox vaccinations. They advocate for targeted vaccination campaigns in high-risk areas.
Experts also stress the importance of public education. Nguyen et al. (2021) argue that community engagement and transparent communication are vital in managing outbreaks, especially in combating misinformation.
Conclusion
Mpox poses a significant public health challenge due to its potential for widespread transmission and the severity of its symptoms. While vaccines and preventive measures offer effective tools for control, ongoing research, international collaboration, and public awareness are essential to address the evolving landscape of Mpox outbreaks.
References
Breman, J. G., & Henderson, D. A. (2020). Poxvirus dilemmas—Monkeypox, smallpox, and biological terrorism. New England Journal of Medicine, 382(11), 981-983.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022). Monkeypox. https://www.cdc.gov/poxvirus/monkeypox/index.html
Nguyen, P. Y., Ajisegiri, W. S., Costantino, V., Chughtai, A. A., & MacIntyre, C. R. (2021). Reemergence of human monkeypox and declining population immunity in the context of urbanization, Nigeria, 2017–2020. Emerging Infectious Diseases, 27(4), 1007-1014.
Sklenovská, N., & Van Ranst, M. (2018). Emergence of monkeypox as the most important orthopoxvirus infection in humans. Frontiers in Public Health, 6, 241. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpubh.2018.00241
U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2019). FDA approves first live, non-replicating vaccine to prevent smallpox and monkeypox disease. https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-first-live-non-replicating-vaccine-prevent-smallpox-and-monkeypox-disease
World Health Organization. (2023). Monkeypox. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/monkeypox
Note: This article is based on information available as of October 2023.