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Monkeypox Virus and Other Emerging Outbreaks: An Overview and Future Perspective.
Amatul Hadi Hamdana1, Habiba Mohsin1, Zoaib Habib Tharwani1
1Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan.
Summary
Monkeypox (MPX) is a global concern due to its spread in non-endemic regions. This review examines MPX epidemiology, clinical features, and control strategies, comparing it with other viral outbreaks to improve prevention efforts, especially in low-income countries.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Monkeypox (MPX) is a zoonotic viral disease endemic to West and Central Africa, caused by the MPX virus (Orthopoxvirus genus).
- Recent global outbreaks in non-endemic countries since mid-June 2022, with non-travel-related transmission, have raised significant public health concerns.
- Existing treatments and preventive vaccines are largely inaccessible in low-income nations, exacerbating global health disparities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the epidemiology, clinical manifestations, challenges, treatment, and prevention of MPX.
- To correlate MPX transmission patterns with other recent viral outbreaks like COVID-19, Acute Hepatitis, Measles, and Dengue.
- To inform strategies for predicting and preventing MPX spread, particularly in resource-limited settings.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature search of articles published from 2017 onwards.
- Analysis of epidemiological data, clinical presentations, and diagnostic methods (PCR).
- Review of current treatment (antiretrovirals like tecovirimat) and prophylaxis (vaccination) strategies.
Main Results:
- MPX transmission has extended beyond endemic areas, posing a global health challenge.
- Diagnosis relies on PCR testing of skin lesions; treatment is largely symptomatic, with antivirals for severe cases.
- Vaccination is approved for high-risk groups, but access is limited in low-income countries.
Conclusions:
- The global MPX outbreak necessitates a coordinated response from healthcare authorities, policymakers, and NGOs.
- Understanding MPX in the context of other viral pandemics is crucial for effective prediction and prevention.
- Equitable access to MPX diagnostics, treatments, and vaccines in low- and middle-income countries is essential to prevent widespread transmission.
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