Monkeypox: An alarming global health emergency

Abstract

Monkeypox (MPX) virus is an orthopoxvirus that causes human MPX, a viral disease with symptoms indistinguishable to smallpox, which includes fever and rash. Following the worldwide eradication of smallpox in 1980, MPX emerged as the most significant orthopoxvirus infection in humans. Cases are most often reported from rural areas of Central and West African countries, particularly in regions close to tropical rainforest where people may have contact with infected animals. MPX is transmitted through direct contact with respiratory droplets of another person who has MPX in the home or in a health facility, or with contaminated materials such as bedding. Laboratory diagnostics are the principal components for the identification and surveillance of the disease, and new tests are needed for a more precise and rapid diagnosis. New therapeutics and vaccines offer hope for the treatment and prevention of MPX; however, more research must be done before they are ready to be deployed in an epidemic setting.

Keywords

• monkeypox
• orthopoxvirus
• smallpox
• vaccine