Mpox re-emerges: Historical background, symptom overview, and contemporary treatment options

Abstract

As the global community continues to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, the World Health Organization has issued a warning of another viral infection, mpox (monkeypox), that can pose a significant threat to public health. Mpox was once endemic in Africa but has spread globally, prompting the World Health Organization to declare it a public health emergency. In response, healthcare personnel must initiate timely, decisive, and robust action before the infection escalates. Moreover, accurate diagnosis is crucial, given the similarity between mpox and other rash-causing infections. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the symptoms, differentiating it from similar diseases, risk assessment, and treatment strategies. In addition, it aims to educate healthcare personnel with the necessary knowledge to educate others and take preventative measures when handling cases, thereby avoiding the spread of infection.

Keywords

• mpox
• orthopoxvirus
• clade
• lymphadenopathy