Can Mpox Virus Become the New COVID Virus? Here's How the New Mpox Virus Infection is Becoming Dangerous in 2024

Verified By | H-Cura Homeopathy Team

Mpox Virus Outbreak: A Global Health Emergency

Understanding the Monkeypox Virus or Mpox Virus

The Monkeypox virus, now officially termed “Mpox” by the World Health Organization (WHO), has emerged as a growing concern globally. This rebranding aims to reduce stigma and focus on understanding the disease and its transmission more deeply.

What Is Mpox?

Mpox is an infectious disease caused by the Monkeypox virus (MPXV), a member of the same virus family as smallpox. While similar to the now-eradicated smallpox, Mpox is generally less severe but can still be dangerous for vulnerable populations like children, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems (UN News, Yale School of Public Health).

The virus is categorized into two main clades:

  • Clade I (formerly the Congo Basin clade)
  • Clade II (formerly the West African clade)

Clade IIb was notably responsible for the 2022 global outbreak and continues to circulate widely (World Health Organization).

What is the Difference Between Monkeypox and Mpox?

Monkeypox: Originally named in 1958 when discovered in monkeys, it can cause illness in humans characterized by fever, rash, and swollen lymph nodes. It primarily spreads through close contact with infected individuals or contaminated materials.

Mpox: Renamed in 2022 by the WHO to reduce stigma and modernize the terminology, Mpox encompasses the same viral disease. The change aims to improve public health messaging and focus on disease prevention and treatment.

How Does Mpox Spread?

Mpox spreads through various routes:

  • Direct Contact: With Mpox rash, sores, or scabs.
  • Indirect Contact: Through contaminated objects, fabrics, and surfaces.
  • Respiratory Droplets: Less common than airborne viruses like COVID-19.
  • Intimate Sexual Contact: Includes various forms of sexual activity.
  • Physical Interactions: Such as hugging, massaging, or kissing.

Transmission occurs from the onset of symptoms until all sores have healed, which can take several weeks.

What Signs and Symptoms Indicate Mpox?

Early Symptoms:

  • Fever
  • Chills
  • Headache
  • Muscle Aches
  • Backache
  • Fatigue
  • Swollen Lymph Nodes

Rash Evolution:

  • Initial Red Spots
  • Bumps Formation
  • Fluid-filled Blisters
  • Crusting Over

The rash can appear on various body parts and cover larger areas.

What Are the Complications of Mpox?

Complications can include:

  • Secondary Bacterial Infections: Leading to additional health issues.
  • Severe Skin Complications: Potential scarring or permanent skin damage.
  • Eye Issues: Conjunctivitis or other eye conditions.
  • Respiratory Problems: Including coughing and difficulty breathing.
  • Complications in Vulnerable Groups: Children, pregnant women, and immunocompromised individuals.
  • Encephalitis: Rare inflammation of the brain.
  • Dehydration: From severe symptoms.
  • Psychological Impact: Stress and mental health issues due to the illness.

Risk Factors and Prevention

Risk Factors:

  • Close contact with infected individuals
  • Handling infected animals
  • Travel to affected areas
  • Weakened immune systems
  • Children and pregnant women

Prevention:

  • Avoid close contact with symptomatic individuals.
  • Practice good hygiene and use hand sanitizer.
  • Use personal protective equipment (PPE).
  • Avoid wild animals.
  • Consider vaccination if applicable.
  • Isolate if infected to prevent spread.

Is India at Risk and What Is the Current Status?

As of August 2024, India reports no new Mpox cases since March 2024. Health officials continue to monitor the situation closely, with enhanced surveillance and preventive measures in place. The country’s risk level remains low, with the government maintaining vigilance and readiness to address any potential cases.

Final Thoughts

An Mpox outbreak is a serious global health crisis that requires a well-coordinated and comprehensive response. Although Mpox is less severe than smallpox, it can still lead to significant illness and death. The economic and social impact on affected regions can be substantial.
To effectively control the Mpox outbreak and prevent a pandemic, a unified effort is essential. Governments, international organizations, and communities must collaborate on key public health actions. These include improving access to Mpox testing and treatment, addressing stigma and misinformation, and implementing effective containment strategies. With a focused and collective approach, managing and containing the Mpox virus is achievable.

Frequently Asked Questions​

While Mpox virus has been detected in semen, it is not classified as a traditional sexually transmitted infection (STI). The virus can spread through intimate physical contact, including cuddling, kissing, and skin-to-skin contact, rather than exclusively through vaginal or anal sex. Understanding the multiple ways Monkeypox transmission can occur is essential for prevention. To stay protected, explore natural remedies and personalized Monkeypox treatment options at H-Cura Homeopathy, where holistic care meets modern health needs.

If you test positive for mpox, it’s important to follow these steps to ensure a safe recovery. Isolate yourself until your rash has fully healed, your scabs have fallen off, and a fresh layer of healthy skin has formed. Make sure to follow the guidance of state or local public health officials regarding when you can end your isolation. Additionally, reschedule any non-emergency medical appointments until after your isolation period has concluded. For support during your recovery,

Mpox symptoms, including sores, generally develop simultaneously and can last between two to four weeks. Unlike chickenpox, which often features a rash appearing in waves and typically improves within two weeks, mpox requires a longer recovery period. For effective management and faster recovery,

Tecovirimat, a novel antiviral medication, has been made available for treating Monkeypox (mpox) under the CDC’s Expanded Access-Investigational New Drug (EA-IND) protocol. This treatment option was introduced during the global Monkeypox outbreak that began in 2022. For those seeking effective Monkeypox treatment options, Tecovirimat represents a significant advancement in managing the virus, alongside other prevention strategies and natural remedies.

Ngongo advises going back to the basics of personal hygiene to protect against Monkeypox. Key steps include regular handwashing, avoiding close contact with individuals showing Monkeypox symptoms, and seeking medical attention promptly if symptoms appear. Early intervention and proper hospital care are crucial for containing the virus and preventing its spread.