Monkeypox has become the most dangerous disease, how much danger is there for India? Keep an eye on these 5 initial symptoms

How dangerous is monkeypox?

times of India According to the report, the monkeypox virus spreading this time is ‘Clade 1b’ which is found in Congo and it is more dangerous. Its mortality rate is 3%, which is much higher than the 0.1% mortality rate of other types of monkeypox. This disease has spread to 17 African countries and many countries outside the continent.

How many cases of monkeypox in India, how much danger?

A total of 30 cases of monkeypox have been reported in India since 2022. The last case was reported in March 2024. The first case of monkeypox in India was reported in July 2022. According to the WHO, 99,176 cases of monkeypox have been reported in 116 countries around the world since 2022 and 208 people have died. Experts believe that monkeypox cases have been reported in India, but the possibility of a large outbreak is still low. Unlike many other viral diseases, monkeypox does not spread easily and requires close, continuous contact to spread.

Who is most at risk of getting monkeypox?

According to WHO, people who come into contact with a person with monkeypox are at risk of infection. Close contact means skin-to-skin contact (such as touching or sex) and mouth-to-mouth, or mouth-to-skin contact (such as kissing). This also includes being face-to-face with a person with monkeypox (such as talking or breathing in close proximity to each other, which may produce infectious respiratory particles). People who come into contact with clothing, bedding, towels, objects, electronics and other surfaces touched by a person with monkeypox are also at risk.

What are the symptoms of monkeypox?

Common symptoms of monkeypox include a rash that can last 2-4 weeks. It may start with fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, fatigue, and swollen glands (lymph nodes). The rash looks like blisters or sores, and may appear on the face, palms of the hands, soles of the feet, groin, genital and/or anal areas. Some people develop inflammation inside the rectum (proctitis) that can cause severe pain, as well as swelling of the genitals that can make it difficult to urinate.

Can animals spread the monkeypox virus?

Some species of monkeys or land animals such as squirrels can carry the monkeypox virus. The disease can be contracted by direct contact with an infected animal or its meat, by bites or scratches, or while hunting. The virus can also be spread by eating contaminated meat that is not cooked thoroughly.

What are the preventive measures against monkeypox?

• To prevent monkeypox, practice good hygiene and avoid direct contact with infected persons or animals.
• Wash hands frequently with soap and water, and use hand sanitizer when needed. Do not touch wild animals, especially rodents and primates, and be cautious of sick animals.
• In areas where monkeypox is prevalent, use personal protective equipment (PPE) and maintain good environmental hygiene.
• Make sure any cuts or wounds are covered and consult a doctor if you notice symptoms such as fever, rash, or swollen lymph nodes.

What to do to prevent monkeypox

Several steps need to be taken to prevent monkeypox. This includes contact tracing, isolating infected people and making people aware. Continuous monitoring and vaccination can also help prevent its spread. Timely treatment and regular monitoring can reduce the risk of a major epidemic. To prevent its spread, it is important to follow health protocols, which include isolation, hygiene and timely treatment.