Monkeypox: An Emerging Global Public Health Emergency

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Public Health

Background:

• Monkeypox is a rare zoonotic viral disease caused by the Poxviridae family and Orthopoxvirus genus.
• The World Health Organization declared the monkeypox outbreak a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) on July 23, 2022.
• A multi-country outbreak occurred from May to July 2022 in endemic and non-endemic regions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an overview of the global monkeypox scenario.
• To describe the clinical presentation and management strategies for monkeypox.
• To inform public health responses during a global emergency.

Main Methods:

• Review of the global situation, clinical manifestations, and management of monkeypox.
• Emphasis on diagnostic approaches including generic orthopoxvirus DNA detection and real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing.
• Consideration of prophylactic and therapeutic strategies.

Main Results:

• Monkeypox management involves identifying suspected cases and utilizing laboratory testing.
• No approved treatments currently exist, but smallpox antivirals may be considered.
• Prophylaxis (pre- and post-exposure) is recommended for specific populations.

Conclusions:

• The monkeypox outbreak necessitates a coordinated global response.
• Early detection and appropriate management are crucial.
• Antiviral and vaccine access through strategic stockpiles is vital for control efforts.