Understanding Mpox: What It Is and How It Affects India

Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, has recently been declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) by the World Health Organization (WHO). This declaration underscores the seriousness of the growing Mpox outbreak, particularly in Africa, where cases have surged significantly. Mpox is a viral disease similar to smallpox but is generally less severe. However, the recent increase in cases has raised global alarm, prompting intensified efforts to control its spread and protect public health.

What is Mpox?

Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a rare viral disease caused by a virus belonging to the Orthopoxvirus genus, including the virus responsible for smallpox. The disease is characterized by rashes and flu-like symptoms and is primarily spread through close contact with an infected individual or animal. As a zoonotic disease, Mpox can be transmitted between animals and humans. It is endemic to Central and West Africa, where the virus is commonly found in small rodents, monkeys, and other mammals. Cases outside of Africa typically occur due to international travel, the importation of infected animals, or close contact with someone carrying the virus.

What are the causes of Mpox?

Mpox spreads through close contact with an infected animal or person. Person-to-person transmission occurs when you come into direct contact with the sores, scabs, respiratory droplets, or oral fluids of someone infected, often in intimate situations like cuddling, kissing, or sexual activity. Although research is ongoing, it is still unclear whether the virus can be transmitted through semen or vaginal fluids.

Animal-to-person transmission happens through broken skin, such as from bites, scratches, or direct contact with an infected animal's blood, bodily fluids, or pox lesions. Also, handling contaminated materials, such as clothing, bedding, or linens that an infected person or animal has used can lead to infection.

The mpox virus spreads from person to person through direct contact with rashes, scabs, or body fluids, prolonged close contact with respiratory droplets, or contact with contaminated items like clothes or blankets. Pregnant women can also transmit the virus to their foetus. Transmission from animals to humans can occur through bites or scratches, consuming undercooked wild game, using products from infected animals, or direct contact with an infected animal's body fluids or rashes.

What are the symptoms of mpox?

After exposure to mpox, symptoms may take several days to a few weeks. Common signs of mpox include:

• Fever
• Rash
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Chills
• Headache
• Muscle aches
• Fatigue

The rash typically begins as flat, red bumps that can be painful. These bumps eventually become pus-filled blisters, crumbling over and falling off. This entire process can take anywhere from two to four weeks. The rash may appear on the mouth, face, hands, feet, genital areas, or anus.

Only some people with mpox will experience all these symptoms. Some individuals may only develop a rash without other symptoms, while others may first experience flu-like symptoms before the rash appears. The rash may sometimes be limited to just a few bumps or blisters. It's also possible to have mpox with minimal symptoms, but you can still transmit the virus to others through prolonged close contact.

How long do mpox symptoms last?

Mpox symptoms typically appear within 21 days of exposure to the virus. If you start with flu-like symptoms, a rash will likely develop 1 to 4 days later. Visiting a healthcare provider is essential if you notice symptoms such as a rash. A person with mpox can transmit the virus to others from the onset of symptoms until the rash has completely healed and a new layer of skin has formed.

Recent data indicates that some individuals may spread mpox to others 1 to 4 days before showing any symptoms. However, it still needs to be determined how widespread this early transmission has been during the ongoing global outbreak that began in 2022.

Current situation of Mpox in India

As of March 2024, no new cases of Mpox have been reported in India. Authorities emphasize the likelihood of a large-scale outbreak with ongoing transmission remains low. The Health Ministry continues strengthening surveillance and ensuring healthcare providers are well-informed about Mpox symptoms and treatment protocols. Since the outbreak began in 2022, India has confirmed 30 Mpox cases.