Monkeypox is a rare disease related to smallpox and cowpox that causes fever, muscle aches, and lesions. The incubation period between exposure and the onset of symptoms is usually a week or two but can range from five to 21 days, according to WHO guidelines.
In a conversation with Mumbai Live, Dr Chirag Shah, General Physician from Apex Hospitals, Borivali shares his insights into the new disease that has sent the world into a frenzy.
Shah shares that the symptoms of monkeypox include fever, headache, muscle aches, and exhaustion. He adds, "In humans, the symptoms of monkeypox are similar to but milder than the symptoms of smallpox."
Shah brings to light that the illness is generally mild and that the majority of the people recover in two-four weeks. He elaborates, "Since monkeypox can spread if there is close contact, one needs to be isolated if they're diagnosed with it. One may need to stay in a specialist hospital, so their symptoms can be treated and to prevent the infection from spreading to others."
Further, into the discussion Shah refutes myths associated with the disease, these include reports claiming that gay/bisexual men are affected by the new disease. He puts the assumptions aside by highlighting, "Such accounts are not true, the disease is spread through close contact with infected people, animals, or materials that are contaminated with the virus. It enters the body through broken skin, the respiratory tract or through the eyes, nose or mouth."
Shah clarifies, "The virus is not considered a sexually transmitted infection, or spread through semen and vaginal fluids, according to WHO. However, anyone in close contact with a person who has the virus is considered at high risk of infection."
Recently, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), proclaimed measures it was enforcing to prepare itself for the disease. This includes screening passengers from endemic and non-endemic countries by the airport authorities, isolation of suspected cases, preparing a separate ward at Kasturba Hospital with 28 beds as well as sending test samples to NIV Pune.
Shah builds on to this by elucidating, "Avoiding contact with infected animals, especially sick or dead animals. Moreover, avoid contact with bedding and other materials contaminated with the virus. Wash your hands with soap and water after coming into contact with an infected animal or human being."
In addition to this, he suggests that foods containing animal meat or parts be cooked thoroughly. Shah voices, "Avoid contact with people who may be infected. Use PPE when caring for people infected with the virus."
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