Monkeypox Renamed Mpox: The Lowdown

The symptoms of monkeypox, a contagious viral disease, include a fever, a headache, and a rash that typically takes the form of tiny, raised bumps. Monkeypox may be uncommon, but it has caused outbreaks in Central and West Africa, the Americas, and even Europe.

A major shift has occurred in the name of monkeypox, with the World Health Organisation (WHO) stating that the disease would henceforth be known as “mpox.” Concerns have been voiced concerning the public’s future outlook on monkeypox in light of this decision.

In this post, we’ll examine the symptoms of monkeypox as well as its causes, transmission, prevention strategies, and treatments. We’ll also discuss the history of the term change from monkeypox to mpox, as well as the parallels and distinctions between monkeypox and smallpox.

Monkeypox: Signs and Symptoms

Fevers, headaches, muscle aches, and extreme fatigue are common early symptoms of monkeypox. A rash typically starts on the face and moves down the body and arms, and legs within a few days. After the rash has gone through its various stages, a scab will form and flake off.

Rash from monkeypox is often more nodular and elevated than smallpox rash, which is normally more flat and scabby. However, distinguishing between the two disorders can be challenging, especially in the early stages of illness.

Swollen lymph nodes, fever, and sweating are among the possible side effects of monkeypox. Complications like pneumonia, meningitis, and sepsis have been linked to cases of monkeypox.

Transmission and Prevention of Monkeypox

It is believed that rodents and monkeys are the primary vectors for the spread of monkeypox to people. Droplets expelled during breathing, contact with human fluids, or contaminated surfaces are all potential vectors for disease transmission.

You may help stop the spread of monkeypox by taking a few simple precautions, such as washing your hands frequently and wearing protective clothing whenever possible. Although the efficacy of vaccination is still being researched, it is available in some nations.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Monkeypox

Typically, laboratory testing is used to confirm a diagnosis of monkeypox that was made on the basis of clinical symptoms. The virus can be detected through the collection and analysis of blood, swab, or tissue samples.

There is no cure for monkeypox, although pain medication, fluids, and antibiotics for secondary infections can aid while we wait for a cure. In extreme circumstances, antiviral drugs may also be employed.

Monkeypox vs Smallpox

Monkeypox and smallpox are both viral diseases that can cause similar symptoms and a rash, but there are also some key differences between the two diseases.

Differences between Monkeypox and Smallpox

Transmission

Monkeypox is primarily transmitted to humans from animals, while smallpox is primarily spread from person to person.

Incubation Period

The incubation period for monkeypox is typically 5-21 days, while for smallpox, it is 7-17 days.

Mortality Rate

The fatality rate associated with monkeypox is between 1 and 10%, while the mortality rate associated with smallpox is over 30%.

Rash Appearance

Rash from monkeypox is often more nodular and elevated than smallpox rash, which is normally more flat and scabby.

Similarities between Monkeypox and Smallpox

Symptoms

Both monkeypox and smallpox can cause a range of symptoms, including fever, headache, muscle aches, and a rash.

Contagiousness

Both diseases are highly contagious and can be spread through contact with infected bodily fluids or objects.

Vaccination

Both monkeypox and smallpox can be prevented using vaccines; however, the smallpox vaccination is no longer routinely administered in the United States because the illness has been eradicated.

Conclusion

While monkeypox and smallpox share some similarities, there are also important differences between the two diseases. Understanding these differences can help with accurate diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and effective prevention measures.

 The Renaming of Monkeypox to Mpox

The World Health Organization (WHO) recently announced that monkeypox would be renamed to mpox, citing the need for a simpler name that is easier to remember and pronounce. While the decision was made to improve public health communication and awareness, it has also sparked controversy and debate.

Reasons behind the Renaming

The decision to rename monkeypox to mpox was based on several factors. One of the main reasons was the need for a simpler and more memorable name that would improve communication and understanding of the disease among the general public.

The new name mpox is also more inclusive, as it does not reference any specific animal species and thus avoids stigmatization of certain animals or regions.

In addition, the renaming of monkeypox to mpox is in line with other disease naming conventions, such as SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome) and MERS (Middle East Respiratory Syndrome), which use acronyms to simplify and standardize disease names.

Controversy Surrounding the Renaming

Reactions to the decision to rename monkeypox to mpox have been divided. Others have criticised the move as unnecessary and potentially confusing, while some experts have lauded it as a step towards enhancing public health communication.

The new name mpox could be confused with other diseases, such as smallpox or chickenpox, which could contribute to confusion and misinformation.

Scientists and healthcare professionals may have trouble identifying and monitoring cases of mpox if they are unfamiliar with the new name, which is another criticism of the renaming.

Recap of Key Points

• Monkeypox is a viral disease that can cause fever, headache, and rash.
• The disease is primarily transmitted to humans from animals and can be prevented through measures such as wearing protective clothing and practising good hand hygiene.
• Diagnosis is typically based on clinical symptoms and confirmed through laboratory testing, and there is currently no specific treatment for monkeypox.
• Monkeypox and smallpox are similar diseases but differ in their transmission, incubation period, mortality rate, and rash appearance.
• The renaming of monkeypox to mpox was based on the need for a simpler and more inclusive name but has also been met with controversy and concerns about potential confusion and hindrance of research efforts.

Future Outlook on Monkeypox and Mpox

The future outlook for monkeypox and mpox remains uncertain. While the disease is relatively rare and outbreaks have been contained in the past, there is always the potential for future outbreaks to occur.

The renaming of monkeypox to mpox could potentially improve public health communication and awareness, but it remains to be seen whether the new name will be widely accepted and understood by the public, healthcare professionals, and researchers.

In addition, ongoing research into the virus and its transmission, as well as the development of new treatments and prevention methods, will be crucial in mitigating the impact of future outbreaks and ensuring the health and safety of affected individuals and communities.

Overall, while the future of monkeypox and mpox remains uncertain, continued efforts to understand and combat the disease will be essential in protecting public health and promoting global health security.