The monkeypox virus has once again become a cause of concern across the world!

The monkeypox virus has once again become a cause of concern across the world. The monkeypox virus has spread outside Africa as well. Recently, the first case of this virus has been confirmed in Pakistan.

The Mpox or monkeypox virus has once again become a cause of concern around the world. Earlier this year, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) witnessed the biggest outbreak of the disease, in which thousands of people were infected. In December 2022, the DRC government declared it an epidemic. Now the virus has spread to 13 countries in Africa and cases of infection have increased by 160 percent compared to last year.

The monkeypox virus has spread outside Africa as well. Recently, Pakistan's National Health Services Ministry confirmed the first case of the virus in the country. The infected person came from Saudi Arabia and officials have started investigations to find out the exact strain of the virus. Similarly, the first case has also been reported in Sweden. Swedish health officials confirmed that it is the Clade 1 strain of the virus, which was found after infections in Africa. This strain causes more cases of severe infection and it spreads easily through casual contact, especially sexual contact.

What is monkeypox?

Monkeypox is a type of virus that affects both humans and animals. It belongs to the same family as smallpox, but its symptoms are less severe. Symptoms like fever, fatigue, body aches, and skin rash are seen in this disease. In most cases, this disease is mild but in some cases, it can be severe.

How is monkeypox spread?

Monkeypox is spread through contact with an infected person or animal. It can be spread through skin lesions, skin-to-skin contact, breathing in air from an infected person, or coming into contact with items used by an infected person, such as bedding, clothing, and towels.

Symptoms of monkeypox

Symptoms of monkeypox include fever, fatigue, headache, muscle aches, body chills, swollen lymph nodes, skin rashes, etc. The rash usually begins on the face and then spreads to other parts of the body.

Measures to prevent monkeypox

* Wash hands frequently and take special care of cleanliness.

* Maintain distance from the infected person.

* If you have any wound on your skin, keep it covered.

* Avoid contact with animals.

* Practice safe sex to reduce the risk of infection.

* If there is an outbreak of monkeypox in your area, get vaccinated.

India's close watch

Monkeypox cases are increasing rapidly in Africa and now this disease has started spreading to other countries as well. The Indian government has also started keeping an eye on it. Therefore, it is important that we all take precautions and pay special attention to hygiene. If you see symptoms of monkeypox, contact a doctor immediately.