History and Discovery of Monkeypox
Monkeypox has recently become a worldwide health concern. It was first discovered in 1958, yet it first manifested as a condition in monkey colonies. The first human case reported occurred in 1970 (“About Mpox”). However, the first case reported in the United States was in 2021 (“Past U.S. Cases and Outbreaks”).
Symptoms, Transmission, and Self-Care
The signs and symptoms of Monkeypox do not develop until days after the person is infected. It manifests through rashes on different body parts, including extremities, chest, face, and genitals, as well as fever and fatigue (“Signs and Symptoms”). Transmission occurs when healthy skin and mucosal surfaces are in contact with infected surfaces (“Science Brief”). It can similarly be transmitted through fluids such as saliva.
Typically, the symptoms can be ameliorated without the involvement of a healthcare provider by covering the rashes with bandages, washing hands, using topical anti-itch creams, and taking medicine such as ibuprofen. A healthcare provider must be contacted if recovery takes longer than a month or if the person has a compromised immune system.
Monkeypox Data: U.S. and Global Cases
Currently, reports highlight that the U.S. states with the most reported Mpox cases are California and New York (5,763 and 4,262 cases, respectively) (“2022 U.S. Map”). Country-wise, the U.S. has the most reported cases of Monkeypox (30,468) (CDC). Nigeria is the country that has the highest number of cases where Mpox has been historically reported (842 cases) (CDC). The outbreak has not disproportionately affected it compared to the significant health risks in the U.S., despite the arguably slight difference in the population.
Article Summary and Personal Reflection
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s About Mpox publication describes the virus’s history and nature. It states that it was first discovered in 1958 in monkeys and in 1970 in a human (“About Mpox”). Most countries did not report the cases as they were all linked to international travel. Clade I and Clade II are the two types of Mpox that exist.
While the condition is not fatal, it can endanger individuals with a weak immune system, small children, individuals with certain skin conditions, and pregnant and breastfeeding women. It was surprising to learn about the outbreak, and the lack of knowledge of the condition facilitated my reaction. Moreover, I was somewhat confused as the major U.S. outbreak was more substantial than the condition manifested in other countries.
Works Cited
CDC. “2022 Mpox Outbreak Global Map.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 2022. Web.
—. “2022 U.S. Map & Case Count.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 2022. Web.
—. “About Mpox.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2022. Web.
—. “Past U.S. Cases and Outbreaks.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2022. Web.
—. “Science Brief: Detection and Transmission of Mpox Virus.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 2023. Web.
—. “Signs and Symptoms.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 2023. Web.