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27 thousand cases were reported, 1100 people died
Two years ago, WHO declared monkeypox an emergency. When the disease began spreading globally, it was more prevalent among men who have sex with men. Monkeypox has existed in parts of Africa for decades. The first case was reported in Congo in the 1970s and it has been spreading extensively since then. The worst outbreak so far in Congo occurred in January 2023. So far, there have been 27,000 cases and more than 1,100 deaths, most of them children. The disease causes flu-like symptoms and pus-filled sores and is usually mild, but can be fatal.
What are the symptoms of monkeypox?
The initial symptom after being infected with this virus is fever. This may be followed by symptoms such as headache, swelling, back pain and muscle pain. After the fever subsides, a rash appears on the body, which often starts on the face and spreads to other parts of the body. These rashes can be very itchy or painful. The infection usually heals on its own and lasts for 14 to 21 days. In severe cases, the rash covers the entire body, appearing on the mouth, eyes and genitals.
How does this disease spread?
Monkeypox spreads through contact with an infected person. This includes having sex and talking closely with an infected person. It can enter the body through the eyes, breath, nose or mouth. Monkeypox also spreads by touching objects used by an infected person. Such as spreading by using bedding, utensils etc. According to media reports, this virus can also spread from infected animals like monkeys, rats and squirrels. However, in the year 2022, the monkeypox virus spread more through sexual contact. This time again the reason for the spread of monkeypox in DR Congo is sexual contact.
Who is most affected by the virus?
Such people are most affected by the virus. Those who have more than one partner or are making new partners. It can also spread by coming in contact with an infected person.
What to do to avoid monkey pox?
Advisory has also been announced to avoid this disease. In which it is said that do not go near any person infected with monkeypox and if the virus is spreading in the paddo, keep washing your hands with soap. The infected person should be kept isolated until the lump heals. According to WHO, condoms should be used while having sex for 12 weeks after recovery. The best thing is to get vaccinated. A vaccine is available for this disease.
Changing variants are also worrying
This virus is also changing its variants. It originated in Congo from Clade-1. According to experts, a new variant Clade IB is spreading easily. Giving information on social media platform X, the head of WHO has said that the emergence and spread of a new type of monkeypox in the eastern parts of the Democratic Republic of Congo is worrying. Cases have also been reported in neighboring countries, which has increased the concern. He also said that it is like Covid, but not Corona.