Everything About Mpox: Cases, Vaccine And Prevention

Africa has been struggling with infectious diseases mpox or monkeypox. A rapidly growing outbreak has become a matter of concern for the continent, leaving people to think it is an epidemic or even a new pandemic. This year, more than 17,000 cases were suspected across the African continent. The outbreak has expanded in recent weeks, including unaffected countries like  Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda, and Burundi. 

In fact, the outbreak has been declared a Public Health Emergency by the Africa Centres for Disease Control & Prevention (Africa CDC) and World Health Organization (WHO). The reason behind the rising number of cases tends to be a delay in mpox vaccine. However,  according to Africa’s top public health agency, it is expected to arrive within days. 

Africa’s public health agency has been working with countries dealing with the mpox outbreak. “We haven’t started vaccinations yet. We’ll start in a few days if we are sure that everything is in place. Vaccines will start to arrive in DRC and other countries at the end of next week,” Reuters quoted Africa CDC Director General Jean Kaseya as saying in a press briefing. 

Jean Kaseya added, “We need to make sure that the supply chain management and the logistics are ready…to ensure that this vaccine will be safely stored and can be safely administered to people who need it,” as the new variant of the disease is spreading in Africa. 

The governments of countries like India have directed authorities at international airports and ports to monitor passengers arriving from Bangladesh and Pakistan, especially for signs of mpox. However, India has detected no cases of monkeypox so far. 

An official told PTI, “The virus strain this time is different and is more virulent and infectious. But the risk of a large outbreak with sustained transmission is low in the country as per the current assessment.”

What Is Monkeypox?

Mpox or monkeypox is a viral disease similar to smallpox. It causes rashes, fever, headaches, fatigue, muscle aches, chills, and swollen lymph nodes. Although it is rare, it can spread through close contact with an infected person. 

How To Prevent It?

• Getting vaccinated helps stop the spread. 
• Stay away from the person who is infected.
• Drink more water and eat healthy food. 

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