Monkey Pox

Context: Monkey pox virus is evolving due to human transmission.

Viral zoonotic disease with symptoms similar to small pox.

• The first case in humans was reported in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
• While the natural host is unknown,  the disease has been reported in squirrels, Gambian poached rats, dormice, and some species of monkeys in the African continent.
• Primary infection is through the direct contact with the blood or other body fluids.
• WHO declared it as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern in 2022.

No specific vaccine available but small pox vaccine works with 85% effectiveness