Risk groups, vaccines and more: 11 important questions about Mpox answered by an expert

Formerly known as monkeypox, the World Health Organization has stepped up its response to Mpox The Singapore government has declared the virus a Public Health Emergency of International Concern, following the identification of a new strain of the virus in parts of Africa, where more than 15,600 cases and 537 deaths have been reported this year. One suspected case of Mpox was reported in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir on Monday, bringing the total number of cases in Pakistan to four. Additionally, following the reporting of Asia’s first Mpox case in Thailand, Singapore has announced temperature screening and visual screening of travellers at Changi and Seletar airports.

The Ministry of Health (MOH), Ministry of Transport and Immigration and the Checkpoints Authority said they will enhance Singapore’s surveillance capabilities against infectious diseases at the borders.

Times Now Digital spoke to Dr Aklesh Tandekar, Chief Consultant, Critical Care, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road, about several queries that people had about Mpox. And we finally have some answers. Take a look:

Who is most at risk?

Monkeypox is a viral infectious disease that can be equally harmful to humans and even animals. People with weakened immune systems, children, especially infants, pregnant women, and men who have sex with men (MSM) are at increased risk of developing this viral infection. Living or traveling in areas with an outbreak of monkeypox can increase the likelihood of contracting this virus.

Is there a vaccine?

The WHO (World Health Organization) has approved the use of certain vaccines to effectively combat smallpox. The JYNNEOS vaccine, which was initially developed to treat smallpox, can also be used to treat the smallpox outbreak. Other vaccines recommended by the WHO are the MVA-BN or LC16 vaccines, or the ACAM2000 vaccine.

Mpox Symptoms

Mpox can cause a variety of symptoms that can last from 2 to 4 weeks. The severity of these symptoms can vary from person to person depending on their condition. Symptoms such as fever ranging from mild to severe, headache, muscle aches, back pain, lack of energy, rashes, swollen glands, blisters, lesions, chills, and exhaustion may be experienced.

Can you get Mpox twice or more than once?

There is a higher chance that a person who has been previously diagnosed with Mpox may become infected again. Therefore, you should be extra careful and take proactive measures if you have had Mpox in the past.

Can Mpox be a pandemic?

A pandemic, in simple terms, means that a particular disease or infection affects a larger number of people around the world. Mpox certainly has the potential to become a global crisis or pandemic, but it has not reached that level yet.

How is it different from Covid?

Mpox and Covid-19 are two types of viral infections, but they have certain differences in the way they spread, their symptoms, and vaccines. Mpox spreads mainly through close contact, and Covid-19 spreads through small droplets in the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes in public spaces.

What preventive measures can be taken?

Preventive measures for Mpox infection include frequent handwashing, avoiding touching your face and eyes with infected hands, and wearing a mask in crowded places, especially where Mpox cases have been detected. If you have symptoms associated with Mpox infection, seek medical attention immediately for timely intervention.

Foods to eat if you have Mpox?

Nutrient-rich foods such as vegetables, fresh fruits, whole grains, lentils, legumes and lean proteins. Eating well-balanced foods can ensure a quick recovery and strengthen the immune system. If you have sores or ulcers in your mouth, opt for soft, easy-to-chew foods such as yogurt, soups, porridge and rice.

Is India at risk of Mpox outbreak?

The outbreak of Mpox cases It is comparatively low in India.

How does Mpox spread?

Mpox is transmitted through skin-to-skin contact via respiratory droplets from a person who is constantly coughing and wheezing. It can also be transmitted from infected animals to humans through bites or scratches.

How long does it take for symptoms to appear?

Mpox symptoms begin to appear between 5 and 22 days after contracting the infection. This means that it is almost impossible to detect the disease in its early stages, as symptoms usually appear later.