All About the Mpox Virus: Just as people are beginning to recover from the impact of COVID-19, a new virus has emerged, causing concern. This virus is known as the Mpox virus, also called the Monkeypox virus. The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared it a public health emergency due to its severity. So far, there have been around 99,000 cases reported. In 2022, the virus had spread, and WHO had issued an alert that continued into 2023. Since then, around 200 deaths have been recorded due to the virus. After a case was found in Pakistan, the Indian government has also issued an alert. Dr. Charudatt Arora spoke to NDTV and explained what this virus is and how it spreads.
What is the Monkeypox (Mpox) Virus?
The Monkeypox virus, also known as the Mpox virus, is a type of viral infection that belongs to the smallpox family. According to Dr. Charudatt Arora, this virus was first discovered in monkeys during research in Denmark in 1958. It was initially found mostly in Central and Southern Africa, particularly in countries like Congo and Zaire. However, after many years, the virus is now spreading beyond these regions.
How is This Virus Different from Other Viruses?
Dr. Charudatt Arora explained that the Mpox virus is quite different from other viruses, especially the coronavirus. One of the main differences is that the Mpox virus causes rashes or sores on the body, which are not typical symptoms of other viruses. This virus is not a normal small airborne virus, so it doesn’t spread easily through sneezing or coughing. Additionally, the fatality rate of Mpox is lower compared to COVID-19.
How Does the Mpox Virus Spread?
As the name suggests, the Monkeypox virus spreads through monkeys. Other primates and rodents, such as rats, can also be sources of this virus. The virus can reside in the bodies of these animals, and when they come into contact with humans, the virus can spread to them. Once the virus enters a human, it can spread from one person to another.
4 Ways the Mpox Virus Spreads from Human to Human
- Skin-to-Skin Contact: The virus can spread through direct skin contact. For example, if an infected person touches another person, the virus can be transmitted.
- Sexual Contact: The virus can also spread through sexual contact with an infected person.
- Blood or Body Fluids: If an infected person’s blood or body fluids are exchanged, such as through a blood transfusion, the virus can spread.
- Sharing Personal Items: The virus can spread by sharing items like bed sheets, glasses, or utensils with an infected person.
