Mpox

Encyclopedia article on Mpox

Mpox

A person with mpox showing characteristic lesions

Mpox, also known as monkeypox, is a viral zoonotic disease caused by the monkeypox virus, a member of the Orthopoxvirus genus in the family Poxviridae. The disease is characterized by a rash that often begins on the face and then spreads to other parts of the body. It is similar to smallpox, but generally less severe.

Signs and Symptoms

Stages of monkeypox lesion development

The incubation period of mpox is usually 7 to 14 days but can range from 5 to 21 days. The initial symptoms are similar to those of the flu and include fever, headache, muscle aches, and exhaustion. Swelling of the lymph nodes is a distinctive feature of mpox compared to other pox-like diseases.

The rash typically appears 1 to 3 days after the onset of fever. It begins as macules, progresses to papules, then vesicles, pustules, and finally crusts over. The lesions are often painful until they crust over, at which point they become itchy.

Transmission

Close-up of monkeypox lesions on the skin

Mpox is transmitted to humans through close contact with an infected animal, human, or contaminated materials. Animal-to-human transmission may occur via a bite or scratch, bush meat preparation, direct contact with body fluids or lesion material, or indirect contact with lesion material, such as through contaminated bedding.

Human-to-human transmission is primarily through respiratory droplets, but can also occur through direct contact with body fluids or lesion material, and indirect contact with lesion material, such as through contaminated clothing or linens.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of mpox is based on the clinical presentation and can be confirmed by laboratory testing. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is the preferred laboratory test for mpox, as it is the most accurate. Samples for testing can be taken from skin lesions, blood, or respiratory secretions.

Prevention

Electron micrograph of monkeypox viruses

Preventive measures include avoiding contact with animals that could harbor the virus, practicing good hand hygiene, and using personal protective equipment when caring for infected individuals. Vaccination against smallpox has been shown to provide some protection against mpox.

Treatment

There is no specific treatment for mpox, but the disease is usually self-limiting. Supportive care, including hydration, pain management, and treatment of secondary bacterial infections, is important. Antiviral agents such as tecovirimat may be used in severe cases.

Epidemiology

Global distribution of mpox cases

Mpox is endemic in parts of Central and West Africa. Outbreaks have been reported in other regions, often linked to international travel or imported animals. The disease was first discovered in 1958 in monkeys kept for research, and the first human case was recorded in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Related Pages

• Smallpox
• Orthopoxvirus
• Zoonosis