Mpox (Monkeypox) is an infectious disease similar to smallpox, caused by the orthopoxvirus [1]. Though majorly widespread in central and western Africa, several other countries have recently reported confirmed cases of mpox [1,2]. Till June 2024, 97,962 cases of mpox have been reported from 118 countries [3].
Mpox usually spreads from animals to humans. However, the currently ongoing epidemic is spread mostly by human-to-human by transmission, through respiratory droplets, fomites, or direct contact with lesions of an infected person. The incubation period is 7 to 14 days, with an upper limit of 21 days [1]. The spread of infection and development of clinical features are represented in Graphic [1,2].
The first case reported in India was reported in Kerala, on July 14, 2022. Over 10 confirmed cases and 8 suspected cases have been reported currently. A comprehensive guideline has been released by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and isolation arrangements have been made in government hospitals by the government [2].
Many challenges like limited education and knowledge regarding this health crisis still exist, despite the measures taken. A recent study by Leo´n-Figueroa DA et al., published in the journal “PLoS ONE”, reported low levels of knowledge about mpox, lack of a positive attitude towards mpox, as well as low levels to get vaccinated against mpox, amongst the general population (see Graphic). These findings emphasize the importance to identify gaps and focus on conducting educational programs on mpox [3].
References
1. Moore MJ, Rathish B, Zahra F. Mpox (Monkeypox) [Updated 2023 May 3]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK574519/
2. Kaur N, Dabar J, Bassi P. Monkeypox: A re-emerging disease. Indian J Pharmacol. 2024;56(2):129-35.
3. León-Figueroa DA, Barboza JJ, Siddiq A, et al. Knowledge and attitude towards mpox: Systematic review and meta-analysis. PLoS One. 2024;19(8):e0308478.