Monkeypox is a viral disease that has recently been noticed to be on the rise in the incidence around the world. For any healthcare worker, patient, and any individual who is in support of a healthy life, it is essential to learn about this disease, causes, history, prevention and management. It can help people to make informed decisions on matters to do with their health, and thus assist the world in fighting this virus.
Causes of Monkeypox
Monkeypox is an infectious disease that is caused by the “monkeypox virus”; this virus is a member of the Orthopoxvirus genus, and this same genus also contains the smallpox viruses. This is an animal to human virus, more commonly referred to as zoonotic virus. The transmission routes are from wild animals, especially rodents and monkeys and from human to human.
People can become infected through:
- Physical proximity with the affected animal or human through the contact with their blood, saliva, nasal secretions, or other excreta.
- Bites or scratches using infected animals.
- A direct contact with undercooked meat from infected animals.
- Direct exposure for an extended period with infected persons or during community transmission, for instance, living together with infected family members or working in a healthcare facility.
This virus is ingested through the skin lesions, respiratory system, or by touching the eyes, nose or mouth. Once inside it reproduces and disseminates throughout the body causing the symptoms that are characteristic of monkeypox.
History of Monkeypox
The first human illness caused by monkeypox was in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), when campaign to eradicate smallpox was in progress. Monkeypox was first reported in monkeys in the year 1958 and therefore the name, monkeypox though research shows that the natural hosts of the virus are not monkeys but rodents. Outbreaks have occurred occasionally in West and Central Africa; the virus is endemic in the region. It means that such regions are at a higher risk of contracting zoonotic diseases since they live in areas that are in close contact with wildlife. New outbreaks have happened in 2003 which involved the importation of infected animals from Ghana hence showing the world how easy it is for the virus to spread to another region.
However, contact between humans and animals together with global travels helped in the spread of the virus to the non-endemic countries in the recent past. This shows the need to employ regular screening and preventive health check up.
Symptoms of Monkeypox
When the symptoms appear, it is easy to diagnose monkeypox hence why the understanding of the symptoms is important. The incubation period (time from exposure to development of symptomatology) is usually between 6 to 13 days although it may take up to 3 weeks.
Common symptoms include:
- Fever
- Headache
- Muscle aches
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Fatigue
- Rash (It is common for rash to start on the face then spread all over the body. )
The rash is widely considered to be central to monkeypox. It has different forms of lesion that include macular type that starts as flat lesion then progresses to become papular type then vesicular, pustular and subsequently crusts which fall off.
Monkeypox is commonly mild and spontaneously resolving and the clinical signs manifest for about 3 to 4 weeks before the clinical signs subside. However, in more serious cases especially among immunocompromised persons, complications are known to occur such as secondary infection, bronchopneumonia, sepsis and death.
Prevention of Monkeypox
That’s why you should take steps to prevent the spread of monkeypox in yourself and your community. Here are some measures that individuals and public health systems can use to minimize transmission rates:9
1. Avoid Animal Contact
Also, do not touch a wild animal or their droppings in areas where the H7N9 virus is common as these animals could be carrying the virus especially rodents and primates. Avoid contact with ill or dead animals and avoid eating meat that is not well cooked especially the ones got from the wild.
2. Personal Protective Measures
If you are in close contact with someone with monkeypox, wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), such as masks, gloves, and gowns, to minimize your chances of getting infected. Staff in health care setting are at higher risks and they have to be extremely cautious with measures against infections.
3. Vaccination
Smallpox vaccine has demonstrated cross-reactivity with monkeypox, probably due to the relations between the two viruses. Some countries infected with monkeypox may advise vaccinating those at high risk, such as clinical workers, lab technicians, and anyone who contacts animals suspected of being infected.
4. Quarantine and Isolation
During an outbreak, isolating the affected people is very important in order to reduce the chain of transmission. We should observe and quarantine those who have been in contact with monkeypox victims for signs of the disease.
5. Good Hygiene Practices For Prevention of Monkeypox
Proper washing of the hands with soap and water and use of hand sanitizers can help to lower the risks of getting the virus. We encourage you to clean with water and soap, use hand sanitizers, and disinfect surfaces and objects that may have exposed affected persons or animals.
Treatment of Monkeypox
Although no direct cure exists for monkeypox, doctors can administer some medications to patients to mitigate the illness.
1. Symptom Management For Monkeypox
In most of the cases, treatment is aimed at the management of symptoms. Paracetamol and other non steroidal anti inflammatory drugs are useful in treatment of fever, headache, and muscle aches. Both, water and adequate sleep are crucial in maintaining good health and allowing the body to fight off infection.
2. Antiviral Medications
Researchers reported that Tecovirimat (ST-246), an antiviral drug initially designed for smallpox, is effective in treating monkeypox. This drug is part of a group of medications, including cidofovir and brincidofovir, that researchers have used in some cases under clinical trials. However, research has not conclusively proven the effectiveness of these therapies.
3. Vaccination Post-Exposure
Although in some occasions, vaccination after exposure may help in lessening the severity of monkeypox. We refer to this as post-exposure prophylaxis and advise it for people with compromised immunity or those who have been in contact with the infection.
Herbal and Nutritional Support For Monkeypox
From the nutritional and the herbal point of view, the enhancement of the immune system helps the body to reduce vulnerability to the viral diseases such as monkeypox. It is imperative for a person to take his/her meals in a manner that is rich in antioxidants; vitamins and minerals.
Vitamin C:
Citrus fruits, bell peppers, and green leafy vegetables contain vitamin C, an essential nutrient that boosts immunity.
Zinc:
This mineral found in nuts, seeds and legumes is essential in the immune system.
Echinacea:
Traditionally, people have used this herb to enhance the immune system and control severe virus onslaughts.
Elderberry:
You can use elderberry, which has antiviral capabilities, to reduce the number of days with symptoms.
You should discuss the use of any herbs with a healthcare provider. This is especially important if you are on medication or have pre-existing health conditions.
Conclusion: A Holistic Approach to Health
It is, therefore, prudent to use preventive measures when combating monkeypox. In addition, proper treatment and adequate nutrition can work wonders. The virus currently affects specific areas, but international travel and animal transportation threaten other parts of the world. That is why, learning about prevention and immune health is something that can save you.
As healthcare professionals, we strongly support the concepts of a healthy lifestyle. This includes eating right, exercising, and practicing good posture. Your immune system is your main shield against viruses such as monkeypox. Spend time focusing on your health, be an ‘informed’ citizen and encourage healthy practices among other people. You become an active participant in the prevention of the spread of diseases. In doing so, you protect yourself and others.
