Causes And Risk Factors Of Monkeypox

Monkeypox is a rare viral disease that originates in Africa. This virus, which is related to smallpox, can be transmitted to humans through fluid exchange by primates and rodents, such as coming in contact with infected blood or saliva. While it originates in Africa, the monkeypox virus has spread to many areas of the world, including the United States and the United Kingdom, due to the export of exotic animals as pets and bushmeat.

While most cases of monkeypox are mild and may resemble chickenpox or a very itchy rash that clears up within two to three weeks, it can be very severe. In parts of central and west Africa where the virus is more common, it kills about ten percent of the individuals who are infected. The following are the most important risk factors and causes for the monkeypox virus.

Orthopoxvirus

This genus of viruses includes many viruses that infect mammals, including humans, as primary hosts. Orthopoxviruses include monkeypox, cowpox, variola, and vaccinia virus. Variola virus, which causes smallpox, is the only orthopoxvirus that exclusively affects humans. Monkeypox is related to smallpox, and the virus is transmitted to humans through contact with fluids from primates and rodents. Fortunately, monkeypox is less severe than smallpox, and it's less likely to be contracted.

There are two primary strains of the monkeypox virus: central African and west African. The virus causes initial symptoms such as back pain, muscle aches, fatigue, headaches, and fever. After the fever breaks a rash usually develops on the face that spreads to the palms, soles of the feet, and other areas. The rash goes through many stages before forming a scab. The infection usually goes away on its own and lasts up to three weeks.

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