Learn about the symptoms and transmission methods of “Mpox”

Mpox, better known as monkeypox, is a virus transmitted between people and animals, and last week it was classified as having a high level of change by the World Health Organization (WHO). It can be transmitted by mammals, rodents and domestic animals. Cases have been increasing in Africa, where 18,000 cases have been recorded since the beginning of this year.

The virus has two variants, or two clades, as the scientific name gives it. Clade 1 has moderate to severe severity and has a high transmission and death rate, ranging from 7.5% to 12%. Clade 2 has mild to moderate severity, with low mortality and transmission, ranging from 0% to 6%. Clade 1 is endemic in Central Africa and Clade 2 in West Africa.

How is transmission done?

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^{Mpox virus particle under a microscope (Photo: reproduction/Smith Collection/Gado/Getty Images Embed)}

The MPOX virus, or MPXV, comes from the MPOX family. Orthopoxviruswhich has the greatest resistance among DNA viruses. Through their evolution, they were created to produce proteins that help avoid detection and an immune system response to that foreign body. Unlike COVID-19, it cannot be transmitted through the air or over long distances. The infection is carried out through our DNA cells, which contain key information for the entry of other host organisms into the cells and because they have layers of external fat and internal proteins, contact is easier.

Between humans, it is transmitted through bodily fluids (tears, saliva, blood, semen, sweat, vomit, etc.). In this type of transmission, the virus spreads through the lymphatic system and affects glands in the body that are responsible for fighting infections.

From animals to humans, transmission occurs through bites, scratches and meat consumption. In this type, the virus spreads through the bloodstream and affects lymphatic organs, such as the tonsils and spleen.

For both, the incubation period is 5 to 21 days and the onset of the disease is 1 to 5 days. The main organs affected by the virus are: liver, cornea (eye), skin, liver, digestive system and brain.

What are the symptoms of the disease?

The most common symptoms of MPOX are: headache, swollen glands, rashes, body aches, chills, fever and fatigue.

Because they are similar to flu symptoms, diagnosis can be difficult at first and in these cases it is recommended that you seek medical attention as soon as symptoms appear.

Featured photo: Patient shows rashes caused by Mpox (Photo: reproduction/Ernesto Benavides/Getty Images Embed)