Monkeypox was first discovered in 1958 when two outbreaks of a pox-like disease occurred in colonies of monkeys kept for research, hence the name “monkeypox” , although humans and monkeys are not the definite reservoir( rodents possibly?)

The first human case of monkeypox was recorded in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

The majority of the cases are asymptomatic but here are some common symptoms that may develop in the infected patients:

• Fever (85%)
• Headache (65%)
• Muscle aches (56%)
• Backache
• Swollen lymph nodes(71%)
• Chills (71%)
• Exhaustion
• Rash ( 97%)

Animal-Human Transmission

From animals to humans, monkeypox is transmitted either by a bite (scratch), in direct contact with body fluids, sores on an infected person or with materials that have touched body fluids or sores – such as clothing or linens.

Human-Human Transmission

In humans it is transmitted with direct contact with infectious sores, scabs, or body fluids. It also can be spread by respiratory secretions during prolonged, face-to-face contact. Monkeypox can spread during intimate contact between people, including during sex, as well as activities like kissing, cuddling, or touching parts of the body with monkeypox sores.

At this time, it is not known if monkeypox can spread through semen or vaginal fluids.

• Avoid contact with animals that could harbor the virus (including animals that are sick or that have been found dead in areas where it occurs).
• Avoid contact with any materials, such as bedding, that has been in contact with a sick animal.
• Isolate infected patients from others who could be at risk for infection.
• Practice good hand hygiene after contact with infected animals or humans. For example, washing your hands with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Use personal protective equipment (PPE) when caring for patients.
• Smallpox Immunization( not available for general public in US)

Supportive care mostly –

Adequate hydration, fever/ local infection / symptomatic management.

Antivirals:

• Tecovirimat (also known as TPOXX)
• Brincidofovir (also known as Tembexa)
• Cidofovir (also known as Vistide)