Mpox, previously called monkeypox, is a disease caused by a virus in the same family as smallpox. It leads to symptoms like fever, headaches, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, and a rash that starts as flat spots and then turns into blisters. Most people recover in 2-4 weeks. Still, some groups, like children, pregnant people, and those with weakened immune systems, can get seriously ill.
The virus was first discovered in monkeys in 1958 in Denmark, where it got its name. The first human case was reported in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Mpox has mainly affected African countries for many years. Still, in 2022, the virus started spreading to other parts of the world, including Europe and US.
The virus spreads mainly through close contact with an infected person, such as touching their skin, sharing bedding, or breathing in respiratory droplets. You can also catch it by handling animals carrying the virus or touching contaminated items like clothing. Mpox is most common in parts of Africa. Still, recent outbreaks have happened in other regions, including the U.S. and Europe. The 2022-2023 global outbreak was mainly caused by a variant of the Clade IIb virus.
To prevent Mpox, vaccines like Jynneos are available and recommended for people at higher risk, such as healthcare workers or those with known exposure to the virus. Vaccination can help reduce the severity of the disease. Even though cases have risen in some areas, experts say the outbreak is not as widespread as other recent pandemics, like COVID-19. With ongoing vaccinations and careful public health measures, the spread of Mpox can be controlled.
The Mpox can be transmitted in several ways. The main transmission mediums of Mpox are:
Mpox, or monkeypox, usually starts with flu-like symptoms and a rash. Symptoms typically show up one to 21 days after exposure to the virus. Once they start, symptoms typically last two to four weeks, but for people with weaker immune systems, they could last longer.
Here’s what to look out for:
One of the most noticeable symptoms of Mpox is a rash. This rash starts as flat red spots that eventually become liquid blisters. These blisters can hurt or itch. Over time, they become pus-filled bumps, scab over, and eventually fall off as the skin heals. The rash can show up almost anywhere on your body, like your face, mouth, hands, feet, and even private areas like the groin or anus.
Some people get many of these bumps, while others may only have a few. In some cases, the rash is the first thing you’ll notice, while in others, flu-like symptoms like fever, headache, and muscle aches come first. Some people may not even get a rash or only have mild symptoms, but they can still spread the virus to others through close physical contact.
Mpox can also cause other problems, like painful swelling in the rectum, trouble peeing, or skin infections if the blisters worsen. Serious issues, like pneumonia, eye infections that could affect your vision, brain swelling, and heart inflammation, can also happen, especially in people with weaker immune systems.
During the 2022-2023 outbreak, a different version of the virus (called clade IIb) sometimes caused the rash to appear in unusual places, like the groin or mouth, before spreading elsewhere. The good news is that most people recover fully, but it’s important to be aware of the symptoms and seek help if needed.
If you or someone you know has pox, avoiding close contact with others is crucial until the rash has completely healed and new skin has formed over the sores.
Diagnosing Mpox can be challenging because it looks like other illnesses that cause rashes, like chickenpox, measles, or skin infections. Doctors need to figure out if it's Mpox or something else, like herpes or syphilis, which can also cause similar symptoms. Sometimes, a person might simultaneously have Mpox and another infection, making it harder to tell what's happening. This is why testing is essential to get the proper treatment and stop the virus from spreading.
The best way to know if someone has Mpox is through a lab test called PCR (polymerase chain reaction). This test looks for the virus’s DNA in samples taken from the rash. Doctors usually swab the rash or the fluid from blisters to collect the sample. If there’s no rash, they might use a swab from other areas, like the throat or rectum, to test for the virus. Testing blood doesn’t help diagnose Mpox because it doesn’t give accurate results for this virus. Also, antibody tests can’t tell the difference between Mpox and other similar viruses like smallpox.
Getting tested quickly helps people with Mpox get treated sooner and prevents the virus from spreading to others.
Mpox usually gets better independently, with symptoms lasting about two to four weeks. After you’re diagnosed, your doctor will help manage your symptoms, ensure you stay hydrated, and give you antibiotics if you develop bacterial infections.
While there aren't any specific antiviral treatments for Mpox, doctors may use antiviral medications like tecovirimat or cidofovir if you get sick. These medicines were originally made to treat smallpox, but doctors are still studying how well they work for Mpox.
The main goals of treatment are to treat the rash, manage pain, and prevent complications. Early help can make a big difference in your feelings and avoid further problems.
Vaccination is another way to prevent Mpox. If you’ve been exposed to the virus, getting the vaccine within four days is best. It can still help up to 14 days after exposure if you haven't shown symptoms. Vaccines are especially recommended for people at higher risk, such as healthcare workers, men who have sex with men, people with multiple sex partners, and sex workers.
If someone has Mpox, they should stay away from others to avoid spreading the virus. Researchers continue to study the best ways to treat and manage Mpox, and more information is available during outbreaks.
Preventing Mpox involves stopping the spread of the virus. Vaccination and other safety measures are key to protecting yourself and others from infection.
Vaccines originally developed for smallpox are also effective against Mpox. These vaccines are recommended for people exposed to Mpox or at higher risk of exposure. You might be at higher risk if:
Vaccination is most effective if received within four days of exposure. However, it can still help up to 14 days after exposure if no symptoms have appeared. Talk to a healthcare provider if you're unsure whether you should get vaccinated. If that's a concern, they can also give you the vaccine in a less visible area of your body, like the shoulder blade.
In addition to vaccination, there are several other ways to prevent the spread of Mpox:
If you have Mpox, most people recover within two to four weeks. Here are some tips for managing your symptoms and preventing the virus from spreading:
Avoid:
If you have Mpox, there are things you can do to feel better and prevent spreading it to others:
Taking care of yourself and avoiding contact with others can help you recover and keep the virus from spreading.
Mpox has affected countries across Europe in varying ways. This overview provides a snapshot of how different nations manage the virus and each region's current conditions.
In France, the government is taking serious steps to deal with Mpox (monkeypox). The country has put its health system on "maximum alert" to respond quickly and control the virus. The first case of Mpox in France was reported on May 20, 2022. Since the beginning of 2024, 12 to 26 new cases of Mpox reported each month.
The government is spending a lot of money on vaccines to stop the virus from spreading. They are making sure people who are at risk get vaccinated to protect themselves and others. France also runs public health campaigns to teach people how to prevent the virus and recognise the symptoms. France is working hard to manage Mpox and keep the population safe by focusing on vaccinations and public awareness.
Spain has recorded the highest number of Mpox (monkeypox) infections in Europe. According to the latest data from the National Ministry of Health, released on August 8, there have been 8,104 Mpox cases since the first outbreak in April 2022. However, new cases decreased significantly in 2024, with only 251 cases reported this year.
All of the Mpox infections recorded in 2024 were caused by the original strain of the virus, with no new variants emerging. The Spanish government monitors the situation closely and has implemented public health measures to prevent further spread. With ongoing vaccination efforts and public awareness campaigns, Spain is working to keep the virus under control and protect its population from future outbreaks.
Between June 1, 2023, and the end of July 2024, Portugal reported 244 Mpox (monkeypox) cases, with only three occurring after May. Fortunately, none of these cases have resulted in death. The Clade IIb variant of the virus caused all the cases.
The Clade IIb variant is different from Clade I because it spreads through close contact but not necessarily through sexual contact, which makes it easier to catch. Health authorities in Portugal continue to monitor the situation closely and take steps to manage the spread of the virus. Public health efforts focus on educating people about the symptoms and encouraging preventive actions to stop further outbreaks.
According to the Robert Koch Institute (RKI), as of August 15, 2024, Germany reported 86 cases of monkeypox, with Berlin having the most cases out of all the German states. While pox is still present, the number of cases is much lower compared to 2022, when the virus spread more widely. By mid-August 2022, Berlin alone had over 1,500 confirmed cases.
Berlin's health administration, led by Health Senator Ina Czyborra, is keeping a close eye on the situation and is ready to take action if needed. Reflecting on the 2022 outbreak, Czyborra explained that Berlin responded well by quickly making vaccines available. Thankfully, these vaccines are now offered through the regular healthcare system, so there's no need for a special vaccination campaign this year. Authorities remain alert to ensure the virus stays controlled and the public stays safe.
Italy was one of the first European countries to experience a Mpox outbreak in 2022, with the first case reported in Rome on May 19, 2022. Since then, the virus has continued to circulate. In 2024, Italy reported 47 Mpox cases, a significant number occurring in Lombardy. Between October 2023 and January 2024, Lombardy recorded 44 cases, primarily among men who have sex with men (MSM). The Italian health authorities remain vigilant, focusing on vaccination and monitoring to prevent further outbreaks.
In 2024, Ireland reported six Mpox (monkeypox) cases, continuing the downward trend after the global outbreak began in 2022. 2023, Ireland confirmed 13 cases, significantly lower than the 227 cases reported in 2022. The Mpox cases in 2024 have been linked to the Clade II variant responsible for the global outbreak. This strain primarily affects gays, bisexuals, and other men who have sex with men. Irish health authorities closely monitor the situation to manage and prevent further spread.
In 2024, Austria continued to report Mpox cases following the global outbreak that began in 2022. While the number of new cases has decreased compared to the outbreak's peak, Austria remains vigilant. The country reported 327 cases by the end of 2023, with health authorities maintaining strict monitoring and preventive measures. In 2024, there have been fewer cases, mainly due to increased vaccination efforts and public health campaigns. Austria has focused on containing the virus by ensuring vaccine access and promoting awareness of the symptoms and prevention methods. The government has also implemented guidelines to manage the outbreak, including quarantine protocols for infected individuals.
In 2024, Switzerland remains cautious about Mpox (monkeypox) following the first cases reported in May 2022. Health authorities have proactively monitored the virus through testing and prevention strategies. As of the latest reports, the country has confirmed 416 Mpox cases. The Geneva University Hospitals (HUG) played a key role by sequencing the virus from the first cases, helping researchers understand how it spreads. Vaccination is available for those at risk, and the responsibility for organising vaccinations lies with the individual cantons. People are encouraged to consult healthcare professionals to assess their risk and decide if they should be vaccinated.
As of August 16, 2024, there have been no reported infections involving the new Mpox variant in the Netherlands. Healthcare providers nationwide remain vigilant for any symptoms of Mpox to ensure that potential infections are identified swiftly. In the event of a confirmed case, the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs) will immediately conduct source and contact tracing to help prevent further spread. They will also guide those exposed. Close contacts of confirmed cases may receive vaccinations as a preventive measure. The Netherlands has an adequate stockpile of vaccines, ensuring they are available if needed. An antiviral medication is also available to treat any complications that may arise from an Mpox infection. This proactive approach ensures the country is prepared to manage and contain the virus effectively.
As of the most recent reports from health authorities in Valletta, Malta has not recorded any new Mpox (monkeypox) cases or deaths. Since the start of the global outbreak, the country has experienced 34 confirmed cases. Despite no recent rise in infections, health officials remain vigilant, monitoring the situation closely to prevent any resurgence of the virus. Preventive measures and public health initiatives are in place to ensure the population's safety. Malta's response has helped keep the spread of Mpox under control, with no new cases reported in recent months.
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If you're concerned about Mpox, Mobi Doctor is here to help. You can consult healthcare professionals online for guidance on symptoms, prevention, and treatment options, all from the comfort of your home.