Ampox, also known as monkeypox, has been declared a global health emergency by the World Health Organization (WHO). After the outbreak of ampox in Africa, the international health organization declared the disease a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC). Before WHO, the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) also declared ampox a public health emergency.

It reported more than 500 deaths and appealed for international aid to contain the outbreak. “Higher population density in cities can facilitate the spread of infectious diseases, making prevention even more challenging,” said Dr Tushar Tayal, consultant of internal medicine at CK Birla Hospital in Gurugram.

“The sudden emergence of an outbreak can put pressure on medical resources and health infrastructure, as we saw during the COVID-19 pandemic, especially if multiple areas are affected simultaneously,” Dr Tayal said.

What is Mpox?

Ampox is a disease caused by a virus and causes rashes and flu-like symptoms. There are two types of ampox, clade I and clade II. Clade I usually causes a higher percentage of people with ampox to become seriously ill or die than clade II.

In earlier outbreaks of ampox, the Clade II type spread and did not cause deaths. However, in the recent outbreak, the Clade I type of ampox is spreading and can cause severe symptoms and even death. Therefore, it is important that you protect yourself from the disease.

Symptoms of Ampox

Symptoms of infection usually begin within a week, but can start 1-21 days after exposure and they last for 2-4 weeks, but may last longer in a person with a weakened immune system. Here, take a look at some of the common symptoms of mpox, according to the WHO.

• rash
• Fever
• sore throat
• Headache
• Muscle pain
• Back Pain
• Low Energy
• Swollen lymph nodes.

For some people, the first symptom of ampox is a rash, while other people may have different symptoms at first. The rash begins as a flat sore that turns into a fluid-filled blister and may be itchy or painful. As the rash heals, the sores dry out, form a scab and fall off.

Prevention of ampox

Vaccination is one of the best ways to prevent ampox. Other methods of prevention include reducing human contact with infected animals and limiting person-to-person spread.

Vaccine for Ampox

Experts say vaccines developed for smallpox also provide protection against ampox. The ampox vaccine is currently recommended only for people who have been exposed to or are likely to be exposed to ampox.

Other ways to prevent ampox

• Avoid contact with infected animals, especially sick or dead animals
• avoid contact with bedding and other materials contaminated with the virus
• thoroughly cook all foods that contain animal meat or animal parts
• wash your hands often with soap and water
• avoid contact with people who may be infected with the virus
• practice safe sex, including the use of condoms and dental dams
• wear a mask that covers your mouth and nose when around others
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces.
• Use personal protective equipment (PPE) when caring for people infected with the virus.

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