HEALTH SAFETY: 10 Ways to Avoid Contacting Mpox Disease
Recently, the scourge of Monkeypox (Mpox) resurfaced in several countries, including the Philippines, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), and a few neighbouring nations. The outbreak escalated to the point where the Federal Government and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) have mandated that international travellers must fill out a health declaration form before entering Nigeria.
This health declaration form is designed to prevent the spread and importation of infectious diseases, particularly the Clade IB subclade, which is responsible for the current outbreak, as the disease spreads through close contact or contact with an infected animal.
What is the Clade IB Subclade?
The Clade IB subclade is a specific genetic strain of the Mpox virus that was recently discovered and is rapidly spreading in the DRC. Its rapid spread has prompted the World Health Organization (WHO) to declare the recent Mpox outbreak a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC).
Symptoms of Mpox
Not everyone with Mpox develops all symptoms, but the main ones include:
1. Fever
2. Rashes
3. Swollen lymph nodes
4. Chills
5. Headache
6. Muscle aches
7. Fatigue
The rash starts as flat, red bumps that can be painful. These bumps then turn into blisters filled with pus. Eventually, the blisters crust over and fall off. This process can last two to four weeks. You may develop sores on your mouth, face, hands, feet, anus, or private parts. Mpox typically takes about two to four weeks to run its course.
Different Ways Symptoms May Present
1. Only a rash (no other symptoms), with other symptoms developing later.
2. Flu-like symptoms followed by a rash. Some people may not develop a rash at all.
3. The rash can be widespread, but some people may only have a few bumps or blisters.
You can have Mpox without knowing it, and it’s possible to spread it to others through prolonged close contact, even if you aren’t experiencing any symptoms.
Safety Tips Against Mpox
Read Also:
Although it is easy to get infected, there are several ways to prevent contracting the disease:
1. Get the smallpox vaccine: Smallpox and Mpox both belong to the Orthopoxvirus genus, so their viruses are somewhat similar. Mpox symptoms are similar to smallpox but milder. The smallpox vaccine is 85% effective in preventing Mpox. If you are at high risk (weak immune system, below the age of 15, etc.), get the smallpox vaccine.
2. Avoid contact with bedding and other materials contaminated with the virus.
3. Cook all foods that contain animal meat or parts thoroughly.
4. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water.
5. Avoid contact with people who may be infected with the virus.
6. Practice safe sex, including the use of condoms.
7. Wear a face mask that covers your mouth and nose, especially in crowded indoor spaces.
8. Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces.
9. Use personal protective equipment (PPE) when caring for people infected with the virus.
10. Avoid contact with infected animals (especially sick or dead animals).
Management and Treatment
Mpox is considered a self-limited disease (it gets better without treatment), with symptoms lasting from two to four weeks. Immediately after diagnosis, your doctor will monitor your condition, try to relieve your symptoms, prevent dehydration, and administer antibiotics if secondary bacterial infections develop.
While rare, Mpox can be fatal. It can also lead to complications such as pneumonia or infections in the brain (encephalitis) or eyes, which can be life-threatening.
If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical care immediately:
1. Trouble breathing
2. New or worsening chest pain
3. Stiff neck
4. Confusion or difficulty thinking clearly
5. Difficulty speaking or moving
6. Loss of consciousness
7. Seizures
8. Fever, aches, or swollen lymph nodes
9. A new rash or sores
Maintaining vigilance and staying informed is the best way to prevent the spread of Mpox. Following appropriate safety measures and receiving vaccinations if you are at high risk reduces the risk of transmission. Be sure to stay updated with news from health agencies regarding the disease.
Aishat M. Abisola is a member of the Society for Health Communication, Wuye District, Abuja. She can be reached at [email protected].
