Virus Outbreak Tips: Understanding Monkeypox Transmission and Symptoms - Health

Global Health Emergency Declared for Monkeypox Virus Outbreak

The World Health Organization declared a global health emergency for the second time in three years due to an outbreak of the Monkeypox virus in 13 African nations , including the Democratic Republic of Congo , Uganda , and Rwanda . This declaration was made in response to the more than 17,000 reported cases of Monkeypox across Africa in 2024 , as stated by the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention . The last global emergency for Monkeypox was declared in 2022 , highlighting the severity of the situation.

 Despite the outbreak in Africa , no cases of Clade I Monkeypox have been recorded in the United States . Federal officials have stated that the risk of a widespread outbreak in the U.S. is low , although a few cases of Clade II Monkeypox are reported weekly . The CDC has issued a health alert and travel notice for Central Africa and neighboring countries , advising providers and health agencies to monitor signs and inquire about recent travel to affected areas.

Understanding Monkeypox Transmission and Symptoms

Monkeypox can be transmitted through direct contact with infected wild animals , individuals with the virus , or contaminated materials . There are two types of Monkeypox : Clade I , which causes more severe illness and death in Central Africa , and Clade II , responsible for the global outbreak in 2022 , with infections being less severe and more common in West Africa . Symptoms of Monkeypox include fever , chills , swollen lymph nodes , exhaustion , muscle aches , headaches , and respiratory problems . The rash associated with Monkeypox usually appears on various parts of the body within 21 days of exposure to the virus.

 Testing for Monkeypox involves collecting samples from the rash lesions for laboratory analysis . However , there is currently no specific treatment for Monkeypox , although a vaccine is available to prevent infection . Doctors are exploring the potential use of the smallpox treatment , TPOXX , to combat Monkeypox given the similarities between the two viruses.

Concerns and Precautions in the United States

Dr. Steven Stack , Kentucky 's commissioner for public health , has confirmed that the new strain of Monkeypox , known as M - pox , has not been reported in the U.S. yet . While Clade 1 of M - pox remains confined to Africa , Clade 2 made its way to the U.S. two years ago and infected 111 individuals in Kentucky . This strain primarily affected men who have sex with other men and individuals with multiple anonymous sexual partners . The JYNNEOS vaccine has been administered to more than 7,000 individuals in Kentucky to reduce the risk of serious illness.

 Stack emphasized the interconnected nature of global health and the importance of vigilance to prevent the spread of infectious diseases . Despite the concerns surrounding M - pox , the majority of Americans are not at significant risk , but those vulnerable are encouraged to get vaccinated . WEKU is actively providing public service and fact - based journalism to keep the community informed about developments related to the Monkeypox outbreak.