Monkeypox (MPOX): Unmasking the Lesser-known Viral Threat

Abstract

Monkeypox (Mpox) is caused by a viral infection and has been endemic in several African states after the last outbreak throughout the world in 2003. This disease resurfaced in the year 2022 and has since spread worldwide, even in countries where no cases had been reported in the earlier outbreak. While the world was still recovering from the menace of corona virus disease 2019 this virus; having similar features, started to spread across the world affecting thousands of people. The virus can be transmitted from human to human, and to humans from bites and scratches of infected animals. Common signs and symptoms include rashes and lymphadenopathy, accompanied with fever. Preventive measures for the Mpox virus include: using masks and alcohol-based hand sanitizers, practicing social distancing in crowded areas and practicing safe sexual activities. ACAM2000 and LC16m8 are a few vaccines available for its treatment. Early diagnosis and timely treatment of the disease have helped to curb the incidence and mortality of Mpox. Through this article, we discuss the history of infection, mode of transmission, the genomic data of the virus along with its signs and symptoms and its prevention and treatment using available vaccines. World governments and healthcare providers need to act appropriately in order to combat another such outbreak, as this disease has not been eradicated yet.