Mpox is a rare disease caused by the mpox virus. Earlier mpox was known as monkeypox. The root of the disease is believed to be in Africa but due to the migration of humans and animals, many cases of mpox are noted across the globe. It spreads through close contact with someone who is already infected with the virus. Mpox viral infection is common in rodents, monkeys, etc. but sometimes the virus spreads to humans due to close contact with animals.
Symptoms of mpox.
The symptoms of mpox are quite similar to that of chickenpox. The only difference between mpox and chicken pox is swollen lymph nodes. Unlike chicken pox, due to mpox virus lymph nodes get swollen.
Other symptoms of mpox include:
- Fever.
- Muscle ache.
- Headaches.
- Fatigue.
- Rash.
- Swollen lymph nodes.
The rash starts as a painful red bump and lasts 3 to 4 weeks.
Before settling the mpox rash goes through various stages. The painful bump turns into blisters, and the blister then gets filled with pus.
The symptoms of mpox vary from person to person as not everyone on the planet has same immunity. Those with high immunity get lesser symptoms or sometimes get no symptoms at all and those having a problem with their immune system get most of the symptoms and usually, they have to take medical assistance.
Symptoms that require immediate medical attention.
- Stiff neck.
- Shortness of breathing.
- Chest pain.
- Dizziness.
Diagnosis and treatment of MPOX
As the symptoms of mpox are quite similar to other rash illnesses like chicken pox and measles, mpox may be misunderstood as chickenpox or measles. the only difference between mpox and other rash illnesses is that mpox comes with lymph node swelling. Some other tests like polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing may be done to confirm the same.
Treatment
Like other viral infections, Mpox does not have a known cure. Just like other viral infections mpox settles down within 2 to 3 weeks on its own. Treatment depends on the symptoms. Healthcare providers may provide some drugs to manage the symptoms if required.
Hospitalization is required or not?
Most of the symptoms of mpox can be treated at home and rarely require hospitalization but in severe and rare cases it can cause some brain infections which may be life-threatening, so in such cases hospitalization is required.
Prevention from mpox.
The fact that precaution is better than cure applies everywhere, so here are some precautions that one should take.
Avoid close contact with those who are already infected.
Wash your hands properly with soap or sanitizer if you accidentally touch the rash
Self-care.
Self-care includes many steps. Some of them are as follows.
- Maintain proper hygiene.
- Close yourself in a room as wandering outside may link you with contact with your dear ones and possibly it may be transmitted to them.
- Always avoid contact with dear ones.
- Try some meditation. It reduces the chance of transmission.
- Always wear a mask while talking to someone.
- Do not touch the objects around you in the room unnecessarily as it may transfer the virus to that object and transmit it to someone else through the object.