Monkeypox Virus

Monkeypox virus (MPXV) is a zoonotic DNA virus belonging to the Orthopoxvirus genus of the Poxviridae family. It was first identified in laboratory monkeys in 1958, and the first human case was reported in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Monkeypox disease, which causes symptoms similar to those of smallpox but follows a milder course, is endemic in certain regions of Africa. However, due to its global spread in 2022, it has become a significant public health concern worldwide.

The monkeypox virus can be transmitted from animals to humans and from human to human. Transmission routes include:

Animal to Human Transmission: Infection can occur through bites or scratches from infected animals or contact with their bodily fluids. Rodents and primates serve as natural reservoirs.

Human to Human Transmission: Transmission can occur through respiratory droplets, direct contact with skin lesions, or sharing of infected bodily fluids. Prolonged face-to-face contact and sexual contact are key risk factors.

Transmission via Contaminated Surfaces: There is a possibility of transmission through objects used by infected individuals, such as bedsheets and towels.

Epidemiologically, monkeypox cases were primarily observed in Western and Central Africa. However, during the 2022 outbreak, cases were also detected in the continents of the Americas, Europe, and Asia. This situation indicates that the virus can more easily spread within human populations through new transmission routes.

The incubation period of the disease typically ranges from 5 to 21 days. Symptoms occur in two stages:

1. Prodromal Stage: Fever, headache, muscle aches, lymphadenopathy (swelling of lymph nodes), and fatigue are observed.

2. Rash Stage: Maculopapular rashes appear on the skin and progress through vesicular, pustular, and finally scabbing stages. Rashes often concentrate on the face, palms of the hands, and soles of the feet.

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The most reliable method for diagnosis is PCR testing. Specific diagnosis is made through genetic analysis of samples taken from skin lesions or bodily fluids.

There is no specific treatment for monkeypox disease. However, symptomatic treatment and antiviral drugs such as tecovirimat can alleviate the course of illness. It is known that the smallpox vaccine provides approximately 85 percent protection against monkeypox. Therefore, vaccination programs targeting high-risk groups are recommended.

Preventive measures include:

Avoiding close contact with infected individuals

Maintaining hand hygiene

Avoiding contact with contaminated surfaces and objects

Use of personal protective equipment by healthcare workers

The monkeypox virus is a pathogen with the potential to cause global outbreaks. As an important zoonotic disease, this virus poses particular risks to individuals with weakened immune systems. Early diagnosis, isolation, and vaccination strategies are critical for controlling the disease.