Reports show that a new strain of the monkeypox virus is spreading across Africa. While monkeypox has been endemic in several African countries for decades, this new virus seems to be more contagious. There have been reports of increased transmission rates and more severe symptoms. Here's everything you need to know about monkeypox and how to stay safe out there.
What is the Monkeypox Strain in Africa?
Monkeypox is a viral zoonotic disease, which means humans can get it from wild animals. It's caused by viruses from the Poxviridae family, which smallpox (variola virus) also belongs to. The virus was primarily found in Central and Western African countries, like the Congo and Nigeria. It was a common virus among wild animals, especially rodents.
Recent reports say that a newer and stronger strain is currently in the continent. Unlike the previous strain, which primarily spread through infected animals, this new strain is said to be more adapted to human-to-human transmission. This means people could get infected by coming in contact with the respiratory droplets and skin lesions of infected people. This is causing huge concerns for health authorities.
Everything You Should Know About Monkeypox in Africa
Monkeypox was first identified in a 9-year-old boy in Congo in 1970. Since then, the virus has been endemic in other African countries, especially in rural rainforest areas of Central and West Africa.
The disease starts with flu-like symptoms, including fever, headaches, muscle aches, and exhaustion. Then, rashes appear. These rashes are distinctive and go through every rash stage, from macules to crust.
The virus has two distinct genetic clades: the West African clade, which has much milder symptoms, and the Central African (Congo Basin) clade, which has more severe symptoms. The new strain is from the latter, but it has mutations that may influence how the virus interacts with the human immune system.
This new strain is quite concerning, especially in areas with little medical attention. The World Health Organization (WHO) and the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) are closely monitoring the situation, with campaigns on the symptoms of monkeypox and the importance of avoiding contact with infected animals.
How Deadly is Monkeypox?
Monkeypox is less deadly than smallpox. Based on history, the virus has a mortality rate of 1% to 10%, depending on the clade and medical care administered. The central African class has 10%, while West African reported 3%. The new strain is related to the West African clade with lower mortality rates, but this cannot be determined yet, as it is still being studied.
How Do You Keep Safe During This Outbreak?
There are crucial steps to take to avoid contracting the virus, including:
- Getting vaccinated: Get two doses of the monkeypox vaccine four weeks apart. Even if it's been longer, complete your second dose.
- Avoid contact with infected persons or animals (or avoid touching people's rash, in general).
- Practice good hygiene.
- Monitor yourself for symptoms.
Final Insights
While monkeypox isn't as deadly as smallpox, it could lead to a larger outbreak, especially in places without adequate care. Follow all prevention tips and report to the nearest care center to check for any rash.