Published on:
September 2, 2024
The COVID-19 pandemic, with its lockdowns, social distancing, and mask mandates, now feels like a distant memory so can we bring ourselves to even discuss a potential new pandemic? Mpox cases are on the rise globally but how much do you need to worry?
Mpox is a virus predominantly found in West and Central Africa. It was originally discovered in 1958 whilst scientists did research on monkeys and the first human case was in 1970. It is usually spread from person to person via direct contact although there have been cases of animal to human spread. The disease reservoir is not entirely clear but we suspect that small animals such as monkeys and squirrel may play host to it.
Clade 1b strain first emerged last September and appears to be more infectious with higher complications. The outbreak remains contained in Africa but due to the reported case in Sweden, there is currently more attention to spread over Europe.
The cases have predominantly been in people with the below risk groups. Anyone can catch mpox but those who have weakened immune systems through certain medical conditions, pregnancy or young children are more at risk of serious disease.
The rash can vary for individuals in location and number of spots. For some people it can be widespread whilst others only experience a few small spots.
From exposure to the start of symptoms, it may be 3-17 days. The illness can last 2-4 weeks in total. People can infect others from up to 4 days before symptoms start until all lesions have fully healed over and a fresh layer of skin has formed.
The complications from mpox are more severe than the typical illnesses we are exposed to through the common cold etc. You could suffer serious pneumonia or sepsis. Although most people without known risk factors will make a full recovery without the need for medical treatment.
Mpox can resemble other diseases such as chickenpox or harmless molluscum. Therefore it is important to seek advice by calling your local sexual health clinic. These can be found through the below resource: https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/sexual-health-services/find-a-sexual-health-clinic/
Contact your local sexual health clinic! You may be eligible for the mpox vaccine. It can be given within 4 days if someone who has symptoms of mpox or within 14 days if they have no symptoms. This is especially important if you are at high risk
As mpox is contagious the government advice is to isolate for the duration of the infectious period. If you share a home, do try and stay in your own room when possible and when you need to leave take suitable preventive measures to stop spread.
We do not need to currently panic. This is not on the same scale as previous pandemics however it is important that we remain vigilant and if we are in a high risk category ensure that we are seeking help when appropriate.
The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and is based on NHS recommendations. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a qualified healthcare provider for advice on medical conditions or treatments.
Our medical centre is at 36 Spital Square, E1 6DY, City of London.
