How is Monkeypox Contracted?

Monkeypox is a viral zoonotic disease that has gained global attention due to its increasing incidence in regions beyond its traditional endemic zones in Central and West Africa. The disease, caused by the monkeypox virus, is closely related to the variola virus, which causes smallpox. Although it is less severe than smallpox, monkeypox can cause significant morbidity. This article explores how monkeypox is contracted and preventive measures that can be taken to mitigate its spread.

How do You get Monkeypox?

Monkeypox transmission occurs through both direct and indirect contact with the virus. Understanding the various modes of transmission is crucial in adopting effective preventive strategies.

Animal-to-Human

Monkeypox is primarily a zoonotic disease, meaning it is transmitted from animals to humans. The virus is naturally harboured in certain wild animals, particularly rodents and primates. Humans can contract the virus through direct contact with an infected animal's blood, bodily fluids, or cutaneous or mucosal lesions. Activities such as hunting, handling, or consuming bushmeat from infected animals increase the risk of transmission. This transmission mode is particularly significant in endemic regions, where bushmeat is a dietary staple.

Human-to-Human

Once a human is infected, the virus can spread from person to person through various means:

• Respiratory Droplets: Prolonged face-to-face contact with an infected person can result in inhalation of respiratory droplets containing the virus. This transmission mode is less efficient when compared to diseases like COVID-19. However, it remains a concern, particularly in household settings where close contact is common.
• Direct Contact with Body Fluids or Lesions: Physical contact with bodily fluids or lesions of an infected individual is a known transmission route. This includes contact with skin lesions that may appear similar to those caused by chickenpox or smallpox.
• Contaminated Objects: The virus can also spread through indirect contact, such as touching contaminated objects, surfaces, or materials like bedding or clothing.

Symptoms of Monkeypox

Monkeypox symptoms typically develop within 5 to 21 days after exposure to the virus. Some of the symptoms include:

• Fever
• Headache
• Muscle Aches (Myalgia)
• Chills
• Exhaustion
• Joint pain
• Swollen Lymph Nodes.

How to Prevent Monkeypox?

Given the modes of transmission, preventive measures should focus on minimising exposure to the virus from both animal and human sources. Below are key strategies for preventing monkeypox:

Avoid Contact with Potentially Infected Animals

In endemic areas, avoid contact with animals that could harbour the virus. This includes refraining from hunting, handling, or consuming bushmeat, particularly from rodents and primates. Public health campaigns in these regions should emphasise the risks associated with bushmeat consumption and promote alternative dietary sources.

Implementing Strict Hygiene Practices

Hygiene plays a critical role in preventing both animal-to-human and human-to-human transmission. Measures include:

• Hand Hygiene: Regular hand washing with soap and water, or using an alcohol-based hand sanitiser, is essential, especially after contact with animals or suspected infected individuals.
• Use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): In healthcare settings or during caregiving, using PPE such as gloves, masks, and gowns can significantly reduce the risk of transmission. This is particularly important for healthcare workers and caregivers in close contact with infected patients.

Isolation and Quarantine

Isolating infected individuals is one of the most effective ways to prevent human-to-human transmission. Suspected or confirmed monkeypox cases should be isolated in healthcare facilities capable of handling infectious diseases. Close contacts of infected individuals should be monitored for symptoms and quarantined if necessary to prevent the further spread of the virus.

Safe Handling of Contaminated Materials

Care should be taken when handling items that may be contaminated with the virus, such as bedding, and clothing. These items should be disinfected thoroughly, and proper disposal protocols should be followed for contaminated materials to prevent environmental transmission.

Vaccination

While there is no specific vaccine for monkeypox, the smallpox vaccine provides cross-protection due to the close relationship between the two viruses. When there’s an outbreak, ring vaccination (vaccinating those in close contact with an infected person) can be a strategy to contain the spread. In some regions, healthcare workers and other high-risk individuals may receive pre-exposure vaccination as a preventive measure.

Public Health Education and Awareness

Raising public awareness about monkeypox, its transmission, and preventive measures is crucial, particularly in areas where the virus is endemic. Public health campaigns should focus on educating communities about the risks associated with animal contact, the importance of hygiene, and the need to seek medical attention promptly if symptoms arise.

International Travel Precautions

With the potential for monkeypox to spread beyond endemic regions, travelers to affected areas should be aware of the risks and take precautions to avoid contact with potentially infected animals. In the event of an outbreak, international health authorities may issue travel advisories or recommendations for vaccination.

Conclusion

Monkeypox, though less severe than smallpox, poses a significant public health challenge due to its zoonotic nature and potential for human-to-human transmission. Preventing monkeypox requires a multifaceted approach that includes avoiding contact with infected animals, practicing good hygiene, isolating infected individuals, handling contaminated materials safely, and considering vaccination where appropriate. Public health education and awareness are essential to ensuring that communities, particularly in endemic regions, have the knowledge and tools to protect themselves from this emerging infectious disease.