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Is the next pandemic on the horizon after COVID-19? Fortunately, it is not. Currently, Mpox is in the spotlight. Since topics like these often lead to fake news and misunderstandings, let’s take a brief look at the actual situation.

What is Mpox?

Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a zoonotic viral disease that can be transmitted from infected animals to humans. In recent times, there has been an increase in cases of human-to-human transmission.

How long has Mpox existed?

The Mpox virus has existed since the 1950s and is mainly endemic in certain regions of Africa, where it is transmitted from animals to humans. However, in recent years, there has been a rise in cases outside of Africa, leading to the virus spreading globally.

Does the Mpox virus really come from monkeys?

Yes, but not entirely.

The term "monkeypox" originated because the virus was first observed in macaque monkeys in captivity in the 1950s. This led to the assumption that monkeys were the original hosts of the virus. While monkeys are indeed hosts of the Mpox virus, they are not the only ones. Rodents are considered the more likely natural hosts. Therefore, to avoid stigmatization, the term "monkeypox" has been replaced with "Mpox."

Transmission

• Animal to Human

  • Usually through direct contact with infected animals (e.g., rodents, primates)

• Human to Human

  • Direct contact with skin lesions (blisters, pustules) of infected individuals.

  • Contact with contaminated objects (bedding, clothing).

  • Droplet infection through prolonged close contact.
    
    

Incubation Period

The incubation period, meaning the time between infection and the onset of symptoms, typically ranges from 7-14 days but can vary between 5 and 21 days. Since the global outbreak in May 2022, shorter incubation periods of 1-4 days have also been reported, possibly linked to sexual transmission in certain cases.

Symptoms

Typical signs include:

• Fever

• Swelling of the lymph nodes

• Fatigue

• Muscle aches

• Headache

• Skin rash that progresses from small red spots to blisters, pustules, and eventually crusts

Most Mpox cases are mild and resolve without specific treatment within a few weeks. However, severe cases can occur, especially in immunocompromised individuals.

The diagnosis of Mpox is usually suspected based on the typical clinical presentation. To confirm this suspicion, a sample is typically taken from the skin lesions and tested for the Mpox virus using a PCR test.

Treatment

The good news is that in most cases, Mpox is mild and heals on its own. Currently, there is no specific antiviral treatment that directly targets the Mpox virus. Therefore, treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and preventing complications. This includes fever-reducing medications, pain relievers, creams for itching, and similar stuff.

Preventive Measures:

• Vaccination: There are vaccines against Mpox, but they are currently not available for the general population.

• Hygiene Measures:

  • Regular hand washing

  • Avoiding close contact with individuals who have skin lesions

  • Using condoms during sexual contact

• Animal Contact: Be cautious when handling wild animals, especially in endemic areas.
  
  

Perhaps you already have some immunity: Did you receive the smallpox vaccine in the 70s? If so, you have some protection against Mpox. The vaccine doesn’t prevent every infection but does mitigate the severity of the disease. Studies show that individuals vaccinated during that time have significant protection against Mpox.

How do experts currently assess the situation?

The World Health Organization (WHO) declared Mpox a "Public Health Emergency of International Concern" in 2024. However, most cases are still observed in Africa.

A new pandemic like COVID-19 is currently extremely unlikely. Unlike SARS-CoV-2, the Mpox virus is primarily transmitted through direct, close contact with infected skin lesions or contaminated materials. Additionally, Mpox symptoms are very specific and easily recognizable. The characteristic skin rash allows for quick diagnosis and isolation of the infected person. The Mpox virus is also less virulent than SARS-CoV-2. Severe cases are rare and usually occur in immunocompromised individuals. So, no need to panic.

Would you like to learn more about Mpox?

Do you remember my blog post Investment in Yourself from earlier this year? The WHO is currently offering free online courses and learning materials on Mpox. Instead of aimlessly scrolling through social media in the evenings, take this chance to educate yourself: https://bit.ly/4dLwszg

Closing Words

The WHO has declared Mpox a public health emergency of international concern, but emphasizes that a new pandemic is highly unlikely, as transmission mainly occurs through close contact and symptoms are easily recognizable. Unfortunately, such important details often get lost in headlines or lead to misinterpretations. But we’re already familiar with that. 😉