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Monkeypox: A comprehensive review of a multifaceted virus
Randa Elsheikh1,2, Abdelrahman M Makram2,3, Tamilarasy Vasanthakumaran2,4
1Deanery of Biomedical Sciences at Edinburgh Medical School, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH10 5HF, United Kingdom.
Infectious Medicine
|December 11, 2023
Summary
The 2022 monkeypox outbreak saw rapid global spread, prompting a WHO emergency declaration. This review covers monkeypox history, transmission, symptoms, and management strategies, including vaccines.
Area of Science:
- * Virology and Epidemiology
- * Infectious Diseases
- * Public Health
Background:
- * The zoonotic disease monkeypox re-emerged globally in May 2022.
- * The World Health Organization declared it a global health emergency due to rapid spread.
- * Transmission routes include animal-to-human, droplet, respiratory, sexual, and vertical contact.
Purpose of the Study:
- * To provide a comprehensive review of monkeypox.
- * To detail historical epidemics, transmission dynamics, and pathophysiology.
- * To outline clinical presentation, diagnosis, and management strategies.
Main Methods:
- * Literature review of historical and recent monkeypox outbreaks.
- * Analysis of epidemiological data and transmission patterns.
- * Review of diagnostic methods and therapeutic interventions.
Main Results:
- * Monkeypox presents with a smallpox-like rash, fever, headache, and muscle aches.
- * The virus replicates in lymphoproliferative organs.
- * Diagnosis is confirmed via polymerase-chain-reaction (PCR) testing.
Conclusions:
- * Monkeypox management is primarily supportive, with antivirals and immunoglobulins as options.
- * Prophylactic vaccines for pre-exposure and post-exposure are available.
- * Understanding transmission and pathophysiology is crucial for control.
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