Mpox virus outbreak: Expert debunks myths surrounding monkeypox

The World Health Organization (WHO) has stated that the recent mpox outbreakIn the context of a global health emergency, the virus continues to spread rapidly around the world. This decision comes amid growing concerns about the rising number of cases and the emergence of a new strain of the virus. However, the current Mpox outbreak has sparked unwarranted concern by leading to widespread misinformation. How does mpox spread? Are only certain groups at risk? Ways to prevent mpox and many similar myths revolve around mpox.

We got in touch with Dr Kuldeep Kumar Grover, Head of Intensive Care and Pulmonology at CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram, who debunks the myths surrounding Mpox, a viral disease known to cause skin rashes and flu-like symptoms.

Myth 1: Mpox is highly contagious

Dr Kuldeep says there is a myth that, like COVID-19, mpox is extremely contagious and spreads rapidly from person to person. However, personal contact with an infected person is the main way mpox is transmitted, especially through bodily fluids, respiratory droplets or contact with contaminated objects such as clothing or bedding.

Made: Mpox is less contagious than many other viral diseases because it requires direct contact to be transmitted, unlike airborne viruses. There is little chance of contracting Mpox through brief contact with infected people because the virus is not easily transmitted through casual contact.

Myth 2: Only certain groups are at risk

Dr. Kuldeep shares that there is a myth that people belonging to particular groups, such as those living in rural or impoverished areas, are the only ones who can get mpox.

Made: Mpox has been most prevalent in areas such as Central and West Africa. Recent outbreaks have shown that anyone can contract the disease, regardless of location or socioeconomic status. Age, gender or background are not factors when it comes to Mpox, so it is critical that everyone understands the risks and takes precautions.

Myth 3: Mpox is always severe

A common misconception is that mpox is always a serious disease with a high mortality rate, says Dr. Kuldeep. While most cases of mpox are mild and resolve on their own, it can be dangerous in certain situations, especially in people with compromised immune systems.

Made: Fever, headaches, muscle aches, and a rash that turns from red spots to pustules and crusts are common symptoms. Most of the time, the disease resolves in two to four weeks without the need for hospitalization. Although the mortality rate fluctuates depending on the strain of the virus and the patient’s general condition, it is usually low compared to other viral infections.

Myth 4: There is no treatment for Mpox

There is a misconception that there is no cure for mpox, leading to fears of an uncontrollable flare, shares Dr Kuldeep.

Made: Supportive therapy can successfully control symptoms and minimize consequences even in the absence of a smallpox-specific antiviral drug. This care involves avoiding secondary infections, controlling pain and fever, and keeping the patient hydrated. Antiviral drugs created to treat smallpox may occasionally be used off-label to treat severe cases of mumps. In addition, vaccines created to prevent smallpox have been shown to also prevent smallpox, offering an additional level of defense to susceptible individuals.

Myth 5: Mpox can be prevented by simply avoiding animals.

Dr. Kuldeep shares that there is a common myth that the best method to prevent MPox is to stay away from animals.

Made: Although mpox is a zoonotic disease (it can be transmitted from animals to people), it can also be transmitted from person to person, particularly in epidemics. Preventive measures should therefore include not only staying away from potentially infected animals, but also maintaining hygiene, including frequent handwashing and avoiding close contact with sick people.