Mpox, earlier known as monkeypox, is a viral zoonosis first isolated from monkeys in Denmark in 1958. Its first case in a human was reported in the Democratic Republic of the Congo in 1970. The virus belongs to the genus Orthopoxvirus, so does smallpox. However, unlike smallpox, mpox is generally less fatal but still causes significant illness. This is a very horrible disease mostly occurring in Central and West Africa but has seen a global spread in the recent past due to increased travel and interconnection.
Symptoms of Mpox
- Fever: It is usually sudden and may be the first symptom noticed.
- Headache: You might get a headache which may become persistent and even severe.
- Muscle aches: Generalised body aches are found, especially in the legs and back.
- Backache: Lower back pain is quite common.
- Swollen lymph nodes: Classic, especially in the neck, underarms, and groin.
- Fatigue: General tiredness is felt, and it can be quite severe.
- Skin rash: Develops 1-3 days after the onset of fever. The rash will advance through different stages, such as flat lesions that progress to pus-filled blisters, and then crusting over to form scabs.
How Mpox spreads
- Direct contact: Skin lesions, body fluids, or scabs of an infected person.
- Respiratory droplets: Directly, person-to-person by close contact, particularly in crowding with a lack of ventilation.
- Contaminated objects: Direct contact with things like bedding, towels, or clothes that have been used by a person with mpox.
- Animal-to-human transmission: Via bites, scratches, and/or direct contact with an infected animal’s bodily secretions.
Cases within Bangladesh
To date, no confirmed case of mpox has been reported in Bangladesh. However, the country is on high alert following a World Health Organization declaration of a global public health emergency. Airport screenings have been conducted by the Directorate General of Health Services since, with a major focus on passengers arriving from affected countries. It has also issued guidelines to prepare for a possible outbreak and is launching public awareness campaigns to inform citizens about symptoms and preventive measures.
What to do if you think you might be infected
If you are having the slightest doubt that you have mpox, the worst thing that can be done is delaying measures to prevent the spread of the virus. The foremost steps to be taken in this direction are:
- Isolate: If you have fever, rash, or swollen lymph nodes then stay away from others, especially those who may be more vulnerable to diseases.
- Seek medical attention: Consultation by a healthcare professional for correct diagnosis is quite necessary.
- Information to health authorities: You should immediately dial the DGHS hotlines (16263 or 10655) to mention your symptoms and seek advice regarding next steps. This is especially true if you have travel history to mpox-affected areas.
- Hygiene maintenance: Frequently washing hands, not sharing personal items, and using a mask while interacting with others if necessary. You should cover visible skin lesions to avoid transmission.
- Rest and keep hydrated: Continue to have good amounts of rest and fluid intake to keep your body hydrated. Most of the symptoms might decrease gradually, but one can speed up their recovery if kept adequately hydrated and rested.
- Monitor your health: Keep track of your symptoms. Seek further medical care if they worsen or have not improved after several days. This will help prevent complications.