Monkey Pox Case in UK

May 10, 2022

A patient in the country of England has been diagnosed with monkeypox disease. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) announced that a patient has been diagnosed. Monkeypox is a rare kind of viral infection which does not spread among people easily. Hence, the overall risk of this disease to the public is very low.

Where did the patient contract this disease from?

According to the UKHSA, the patient might have contracted this disease in Nigeria. The patient is currently being treated at the Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, London.

What is monkey pox disease?

It is a rare kind of viral infection. Most people suffering from this disease recover within a few weeks’ time as it is a mild self-limiting disease. However, some individuals can be affected severely.

When was this disease discovered?

In the year 1958, this disease was first discovered after two outbreaks of a pox-like disease occurred in the monkey colonies that were being kept for research. Thus, the name ‘monkey pox’ was given. In the year 1970, the first human case was recorded in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

What are the symptoms of this disease?

The symptoms include:

headache
fever
backache
muscle aches
chills
swollen lymph nodes
exhaustion.

A rash might develop which often begins on the face. It then spreads to other body parts. The rash changes overtime before it forms a scab. The scab falls off later.

How does this disease spread?

This disease spreads when someone if a person is in close contact with an individual who is infected. This virus can enter a person’s body through the respiratory tract, broken skin, nose, eyes, or mouth. Rodents which also include pet animals as well as monkeys can carry and transmit this disease.

What are the prevention measures for monkeypox?

Avoiding any contact with animals that can transmit the disease.
Avoiding any contact with materials like bedding, etc that have been in contact with the animals infected with this disease.
Infected patients must be isolated to avoid the risk of infection.
Proper hand hygiene must be practiced after coming in contact with infected humans or animals.
Personal protective equipment (PPE) must be used when caring for and treating a patient infected with this disease.

What is the treatment for monkeypox?

At present, there is no safe and proven treatment for this disease. To control the outbreak of this disease the health officials can use antivirals, smallpox vaccines, and vaccinia immune globulin (VIG).

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