What to know about Monkey Pox Disease- Joshua C. Orochi

Monkey pox is an infectious disease caused by the monkey pox virus. The disease was first identified in laboratory monkeys, hence its name, but in its natural state it seems to infect rodents more often than primates. The disease originates from Central and West Africa. An outbreak that occurred in the United States in 2003 was traced to a pet store where imported Gambian pouched rats were sold.

Monkey pox virus is a zoonotic viral disease that occurs primarily in remote villages of Central and West Africa in proximity to tropical rainforests where there is more frequent contact with infected animals. Monkey pox is usually transmitted to humans from rodents, pets, and primates through contact with the animal's blood or through a bite.

In humans, monkey pox is similar to smallpox, although it is often milder. Vaccination against smallpox is assumed to provide protection against human monkey pox infection considering they are closely related viruses. Currently, there is no proven, safe treatment for monkey pox. However, there are number of measures that can be taken to prevent infection with monkey pox virus:

Practice good hand hygiene after contact with infected animals or humans. Avoid contact with animals that could harbor the virus (including animals that are sick or that have been found dead in areas where monkey pox occurs. Take charge of your health (be careful where you go, who you shake hands with or what you touch). Avoid eating bush meat, wash your hands regularly and be informed at all times. 

Together we can kick Monkey pox out of Nigeria.

Orochi Joshua is a graduate of Biochemistry, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, 
This information first appeared on Mazinwosublog.com