While we might still be unsure about whether COVID has reached its peak, the emergence of monkeypox has certainly taken us by surprise, dominating headlines as the latest declared pandemic. After enduring the previous pandemic, this unexpected news has understandably left many feeling disheartened. This article aims to provide more insight into this recent development.
1) Why Is It Considered a Pandemic?
Over 3,400 cases across 58 countries? Wow! This virus is indeed significant. It's not something we can just sit back and observe, especially after everything we've been through with the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. The rapid spread of monkeypox from continent to continent has alarmed the World Health Network (WHN), prompting them to officially label it a ‘pandemic'. Recent findings indicate that the coincidence of the monkeypox outbreak with the COVID-19 pandemic raises global concerns about potential new health crises, with millions at risk of severe outcomes if the spread continues unchecked [1]. The most chilling warning from health authorities is that millions could potentially lose their lives or eyesight if the numbers continue to rise.
2) What's Different About This Outbreak?
For some, the term ‘monkeypox' might not be familiar, but this virus isn't entirely new to the world. Several countries have experienced previous outbreaks. However, researchers have noted something unusual this time around: the human-to-human transmission and its rapid pace. The 2022 outbreak displayed a significant increase in the number of cases, particularly in non-endemic countries, which has raised alarms among public health experts [2]. While we're still learning about monkeypox, the implications of its spread remain a significant concern.
3) What Should We Do Next?
Acknowledging that we're facing two pandemics simultaneously is crucial. It's time to move beyond complaining about the situation. The sooner we come to terms with reality, the better we can slow the progression of monkeypox. Just as we did before, let's reinstate the quarantine mindset and limit unnecessary visits. Masks and sanitation measures remain essential in this ongoing battle, especially considering that strict infection control measures are vital for preventing the spread of monkeypox [4].
4) Are There Any Treatments Available?
Currently, there isn't a specific cure for monkeypox. However, smallpox medications and preventive vaccines have shown some effectiveness, thankfully. Vaccination strategies have been emphasized as key preventative measures against the virus [5]. While there's no need to panic, it's not a time to let our guard down either. Just because treatments exist doesn't mean we should invite illness into our lives. We all know the drill to stay safe!
Yes, this is happening, and we need to accept it while keeping our defenses up! So, let's mask up and unite in our efforts to combat this evolving pandemic together.
If you have questions about monkeypox or need personalized advice, consider trying our online doctor consultation service. Whether you want to chat with an AI doctor or talk to a doctor online, our online AI doctor is here to help.
References:
- Saleh Al-Gburi, Zainab Namuq. A Review of the Recent Monkeypox Outbreak in 2022.. PubMed. 2022.
- Ranjan K Mohapatra, Venkataramana Kandi, Veronique Seidel, Ashish K Sarangi, Snehasish Mishra, Ali A Rabaan, Saad Alhumaid, Abbas Al Mutair, Kuldeep Dhama. Monkeypox lineages amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic: A global public health concern - Correspondence.. PubMed. 2022.
- Dattatreya Mukherjee, Shubhajeet Roy, Vaishali Singh, Shilpa Gopinath, Nishan Babu Pokhrel, Vikash Jaiswal. Monkeypox as an emerging global health threat during the COVID- 19 time.. PubMed. 2022.
- Smriti Krishna, Chhaya Kurrey, Manisha Yadav, Shakuntala Mahilkar, Subash Chandra Sonkar, Naveen Kumar Vishvakarma, Anand Sonkar, Lal Chandra, Bidhan Chandra Koner. Insights into the emergence and evolution of monkeypox virus: Historical perspectives, epidemiology, genetic diversity, transmission, and preventative measures.. PubMed. 2024.
- Francesca Spirito, Agostino Guida, Vito Carlo Alberto Caponio, Lorenzo Lo Muzio. Monkeypox: A New Challenge for Global Health System?. PubMed. 2023.