Causes and risk factors
Spread of infection to humans from infected animals result from direct contact with the blood, bodily fluids, or rashes of infected animals. Rodents, pets, and handling of infected monkeys are known to transmit the disease in humans. Human-to-human transmission can occur via infected respiratory tract excretions, with the skin lesions of an infected person, or with recently contaminated objects. Transmission through droplet infection is also possible. Transmission via placenta can also occur.
Clinical presentation
The initial symptoms include severe headache, fever, myalgia, backache, debility. Lymphadenopathy occurs. Eventually, skin lesions appear which are seen mainly on face, palms, and soles, or anywhere else on the body. They appear as macules, papules, vesicles, pustules in varying stages. There are a few eruptions and sometimes thousands of them.
Investigations
Medical history by the patient and clinical examination by the doctor helps in diagnosis. ELISA test is done. Tests to detect the presence of antigens is done. PCR is required. Isolation of the virus by cell culture is done.
Treatment
A small pox vaccine must be administered to all people who have been exposed to monkeypox. (Even though the small pox has been totally eradicated as of now in human population, small pox vaccines have shown promising results in monkey pox virus affected population.) An antiviral drug is administered. Symptomatic treatment with analgesics, antipyretics are given.
Complications
Death can occur in small children and immune-compromised patients.
When to Contact a Doctor
One must consult a doctor if maculopapular skin lesions appear which are seen on mainly face, palms, and soles.
Prevention
Vaccination against smallpox is 85% effective in preventing monkeypox. Avoiding close contact with any animal or human suffering from monkeypox prevents the disease. Thoroughly cooking animal products before eating will prevent the disease. Using gloves and protective equipment while taking care of the patients by healthcare workers is helpful. Regular hand washing is necessary.
Systems involved
Integumentary system, circulatory system, respiratory system
Organs involved
Skin, lungs
