There have been 131 confirmed cases of monkeypox and 106 other suspected cases since the first infection was reported on May 7, the World Health Organization (WHO) said on Tuesday. The 131 cases were recorded in 19 countries where the disease is not considered endemic.
While the outbreak is unusual, “it can be contained”, said the WHO, which convened new meetings to support member states with more information on how to deal with the disease and its transmission.
Characteristics of the disease
Monkeypox (Monkeypox) is a disease transmitted from animals to humans (zoonosis) in the wild. Incidental human infections occur sporadically in forested parts of Central and West Africa.
Monkeypox endemic countries are: Benin, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Democratic Republic of Congo, Gabon, Ghana (identified only in animals), Ivory Coast, Liberia, Nigeria, Republic of Congo, Sierra Leone and Sudan South.
The disease is caused by the monkeypox virus, which belongs to the orthopoxvirus genus of the Poxviridae family, and can be transmitted from person to person by close contact with injuries, body fluids, respiratory droplets and contaminated materials such as bedding. The incubation period for monkeypox is usually 6 to 13 days, but can range from 5 to 21 days.
The disease is often self-limiting with symptoms usually resolving spontaneously within 14 to 21 days. Symptoms can be mild or severe, and the lesions can be very itchy or painful.
The animal reservoir remains unknown, although it is likely to be among rodents. Contact with live and dead animals through hunting and consumption of game or bushmeat are known risk factors.
Source: CNN Brasil
