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Ampox, earlier called monkeypox, is a rare viral infection from the Orthopoxvirus genus that resembles smallpox and the disease is currently wreaking havoc not only globally but also in India, it has become a matter of concern as the Ampox Clade 1 strain that has led to WHO declaring it a public health emergency has been found in Kerala. Hence, it requires strong containment strategies because even though a large number of cases are seen in central and western Africa, the Clade 1b strain has recently been detected in a 38-year-old man from Kerala’s Malappuram district who had recently returned from the UAE.
Reason:
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Manjusha Agarwal, Senior Consultant, Internal Medicine at Gleneagles Hospitals, Parel Mumbai, explained, “The symptoms of ampox will appear within 6-15 days. The disease spreads from person to person when a person comes in contact with someone suffering from ampox. It usually spreads through an infected person or animal or by coming in contact with contaminated objects. The virus can also spread through skin lesions, body fluids or respiratory droplets of an infected person or by touching contaminated surfaces or objects. So, you have to be cautious and avoid being around sick people.”
Speaking about his expertise, Dr Badal Taori, Consultant General Medicine at Medicover Hospitals, Navi Mumbai said, “Mipox is a type of serious viral infection caused by the monkeypox virus (MPXV). It can manifest a number of symptoms such as fever, chills and swollen lymph nodes, often accompanied by painful rashes that may look like pimples or blisters. How is Mipox spread: Close, skin-to-skin contact with a person suffering from monkeypox rash, exposure to saliva droplets during close conversation and kissing, sexual contact including touching the genitals and oral, anal or vaginal sex, contact with objects, clothing (clothing, bedding or towels) and surfaces that have been used by a person suffering from Mipox.”
symptoms
Dr. Manjusha Agarwal said, “The symptoms of this viral disease are rashes, fever, sore throat, headache, muscle pain, back pain, lack of energy, swollen lymph nodes. This disease can make a person feel sick and tired. These symptoms should not be ignored and need to be attended to in time. It is better to follow the instructions given by the doctor.”
It spreads primarily through close contact with infected individuals or animals, said Dr Subrata Das, Senior Consultant, Internal Medicine and Diabetes, Sakra World Hospital, Bengaluru. “Common symptoms include fever, swollen lymph nodes, muscle aches, fatigue, chills, and a rash that may turn into fluid-filled blisters. The rash usually begins as small, flat red spots that may appear on areas such as the face, hands, feet, mouth, genitals, or anus and cause discomfort.”
Prevention Tips and Treatments
The virus can be detected in pregnant women, children and people with low immunity or people who have travelled to areas where there are active cases of ampox. To prevent this viral disease, Dr Manjusha Agarwal suggests, “Stay away from sick people, follow good hand hygiene, such as washing hands with soap and water regularly, avoid touching your face, use a mask, maintain a safe distance from people, isolate yourself if you have symptoms such as fever and rashes. ampox can lead to complications such as brain inflammation and swelling, myocarditis, skin infections and dehydration. One can even suffer from respiratory problems such as pneumonia and eye problems.”
He added, “There is no definite treatment to deal with ampox. It is a good idea to rest, take treatment according to the symptoms. Do not self-medicate for symptoms like headache, rashes, fever, sore throat or muscle pain as doing so can be risky. You should take adequate rest, sleep well, eat nutritious food and stay in isolation at home. Therefore, supportive care like staying hydrated, drinking enough fluids, taking pain medication and following the skincare suggested by the expert will help in recovering from ampox. Recovery can happen within a period of one month after following the instructions given by the doctor.”
Dr. Subrata Das explained, “The disease usually resolves on its own within two to four weeks, but severe cases may lead to complications such as pneumonia or encephalitis, which can be life-threatening. Different types of the ampox virus have varying mortality rates, with clade I being the most dangerous. Prevention includes maintaining good hygiene, practicing safe sex, avoiding contact with infected animals, and using protective gear. Ampox can sometimes be misdiagnosed as other rash-related diseases such as chickenpox or measles, but swollen lymph nodes help differentiate it. Immediate medical help is necessary if symptoms such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, seizures, or confusion appear.”
Dr. Badal Taori said, “It is very important to take necessary precautions and follow safety measures to protect yourself from this deadly virus. This can be achieved by following good hygiene, washing hands frequently with soap and water. Avoid sharing your personal belongings such as towels, brushes or clothes. If you notice these symptoms, consult a doctor immediately so that timely treatment can be done. Make sure you isolate yourself in case you get infected with this virus. There is no specific treatment option for ampox. It can be treated by following safety measures and taking proper care.”
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor for any questions about any medical condition.
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