Monkeypox: A new Virus outbreak?

What is Monkeypox?

Monkeypox is a virus that spreads from wild animals, such as rats and primates, to humans inexceptional at this time,” a senior U.S. administration official said.

Monkeypox is usually a mild viral illness, characterised by symptoms of fever as well as a distinctive bumpy rash.

Human-to-human transmission is occurring among people in close physical contact with cases who are symptomatic.

World Health Organization (WHO) reports 92 confirmed monkeypox cases and 28 suspected ones.

Cases have been reported in at least nine countries – Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, Sweden and the United Kingdom – as well as the United States, Canada, Pakistan and Australia.

First identified in monkeys, the disease typically spreads through close contact and has rarely spread outside Africa, so this series of cases has triggered concern.

However, scientists do not expect the outbreak to evolve into a pandemic like COVID-19, given the virus does not spread as easily as SARS-COV-2.

Stay safe! If you show signs, see your doctor immediately.