The Return of "Monkeypox"

Is it back again? In the past 2 years, there's news from Thailand's Department of Disease Control stating that the first Mpox (monkeypox) patient in Thailand has been found, coming from Africa. How true is this? Is it scary? And how can we protect ourselves? Let's read about it together here.

From the news that came out a few days ago, stating that a patient with "Mpox" has entered Thailand, the Department of Disease Control said that this patient is only a "suspected case". The Ministry of Public Health had to announce this to prevent public panic. But, because NOWFOODSTHAILAND cares about the health of all readers, today we'll talk about "Mpox" and how we can prepare for this disease or take care of our loved ones.

Basic Knowledge About "Mpox"

Mpox (Monkeypox) is caused by a virus from the Poxviridae family, classified in the Orthopoxvirus genus. It can be found in many animals such as squirrels, wild rats, and various rodents, not just monkeys as we might understand. However, it can be transmitted from person to person. This disease is common in Central and West African countries.

How to Recognize the Symptoms of "Mpox"

General symptoms of Mpox include fever, headache, muscle pain, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, and a characteristic rash. Generally, it starts on the face and spreads to other parts of the body, developing from flat spots to raised bumps, then to fluid-filled blisters that eventually scab over and fall off. This disease usually lasts for 2-4 weeks. Most patients recover on their own, with severe cases usually found in young children.

How is "Mpox" Transmitted?

Mpox can be transmitted through direct contact with blood, bodily fluids, or pustules of infected animals, or from being bitten or scratched by infected animals. It can also spread through preparing food from wild animals or eating undercooked meat. Indirect transmission can occur through contact with bedding of sick animals.

How to Prevent "Mpox"

To reduce the risk of Mpox infection, we can take the following preventive measures:

• Avoid close contact with people who have rashes similar to Mpox
• Avoid eating undercooked meat
• Wash hands regularly with soap and water or use alcohol-based hand sanitizer
• Wear personal protective equipment, including face masks, when caring for infected individuals
• Get vaccinated if you are in a high-risk group or have been exposed to the virus

Mpox may sound alarming due to its severity and symptoms. However, if we regularly take care of our bodies, wash our hands frequently, maintain cleanliness, wear face masks, avoid traveling to areas with outbreaks, exercise, get enough rest, or find supplements to boost our immune system, these regular practices can help us face any situation strongly and healthily.

References:

• Department of Disease Control, Ministry of Public Health. (2022). Guidelines for Monkeypox Surveillance and Investigation.
• Food and Drug Administration. (2022). Procurement and Use of Monkeypox Vaccines in Thailand.