On August 14, 2024, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared Mpox a public health emergency, due to the emergence of a new strain and a surge of cases across Africa. Nigeria, in particular, has seen a worrying rise in cases, with 39 confirmed infections across 33 states, including notable numbers in Bayelsa, Cross River, Ogun, Lagos, Ondo, and Ebonyi states. As the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) prepares to roll out a vaccination campaign targeting high-risk groups, it is essential for Nigerians to understand what Mpox is, how it spreads, the symptoms to watch out for, and most importantly, how to prevent it.

As an association that remains deeply committed to promoting public health and safety, the National Association of Seadogs (Pyrates Confraternity) urges all Nigerians to stay informed, adhere to preventive measures, and support the efforts of health authorities in combating this outbreak.

AETIOLOGY OF MPOX

Mpox, formerly known as Monkeypox, is a viral disease caused by the Mpox virus, a member of the Orthopoxvirus genus, which also includes smallpox. Although Mpox is less severe than smallpox, it can still lead to significant health complications, especially in vulnerable populations. The disease was first identified in monkeys in 1958, hence the name, but it is more commonly spread through rodents, such as rats and squirrels. The first human case was reported in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Over the years, sporadic outbreaks have occurred, primarily in Central and West Africa. However, the recent resurgence and the emergence of a new strain have raised global concerns, prompting the WHO to take urgent action.

MODE OF TRANSMISSION

Mpox primarily spreads through direct contact with an infected animal or person. The virus can enter the body through broken skin, respiratory tract, or mucous membranes (eyes, nose, or mouth). Here are the key modes of transmission:

1. Animal-to-Human Transmission: Humans can contract Mpox through direct contact with the blood, bodily fluids, or lesions of infected animals. This can happen during hunting, skinning, or consuming bushmeat. Additionally, handling or consuming undercooked meat from infected animals can lead to infection.

2. Human-to-Human Transmission: Mpox spreads from person to person through close contact with respiratory droplets, bodily fluids, or lesions. This often occurs in households, healthcare settings, or through intimate contact. Prolonged face-to-face contact or touching contaminated surfaces, such as bedding, clothing, or towels, can also facilitate transmission.

3. Contaminated Objects: The virus can survive on surfaces for an extended period, making indirect transmission possible. Shared items like bedding, towels, or utensils can harbor the virus, posing a risk to anyone who comes into contact with them.

4. Mother-to-Child Transmission: Pregnant women can pass the virus to their unborn children through the placenta, leading to congenital Mpox.

SYMPTOMS AND SIGNS OF MPOX

The incubation period for Mpox typically ranges from 6 to 13 days, but it can vary from 5 to 21 days. The infection progresses through different stages, with the following symptoms and signs:

1. Prodromal Phase (Initial Symptoms):

• Fever: The onset of fever is often the first symptom, ranging from mild to high-grade.
• Headache: Severe headaches are common during the early stages of infection.
• Muscle Aches: Myalgia, or muscle pain, is frequently reported.
• Back Pain: Lower back pain can be a symptom, often accompanying muscle aches.
• Fatigue: A general feeling of tiredness and weakness may set in.
• Lymphadenopathy: Swelling of the lymph nodes is a distinctive feature of Mpox, differentiating it from other viral infections like chickenpox or smallpox.

2. Rash Phase:

• Rash Onset: After 1 to 3 days of fever, a rash typically appears, starting on the face and then spreading to other parts of the body. The rash progresses through different stages:
• Macules: Flat, discolored spots on the skin.
• Papules: Raised, solid bumps.
• Vesicles: Small, fluid-filled blisters.
• Pustules: Blisters filled with pus.
• Scabs: The pustules eventually crust over and form scabs, which later fall off.
• Distribution: The rash usually affects the face, palms of the hands, soles of the feet, and mucous membranes (mouth, eyes, and genital areas).

3. Complications:

• In severe cases, Mpox can lead to complications such as secondary bacterial infections, respiratory distress, sepsis, encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), and, in rare instances, death. The disease is more severe in young children, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems.

PREVENTIVE MEASURES

Preventing Mpox requires a combination of personal hygiene, vaccination, and public health measures. Here are some key steps to protect yourself and your community:

1. Avoid Contact with Infected Animals:

• – Refrain from handling or consuming bushmeat, especially in regions where Mpox is prevalent.
• – If you must handle animals, wear protective gear such as gloves and masks to reduce the risk of transmission.

2. Practice Good Hygiene:

• – Wash your hands regularly with soap and water, especially after coming into contact with animals or handling raw meat.
• – Use alcohol-based hand sanitizers when soap and water are not available.
• – Avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose, and mouth, with unwashed hands.

3. Minimize Close Contact:

• – Avoid close contact with individuals who have Mpox or exhibit symptoms such as a rash or fever.
• – In healthcare settings, ensure that personal protective equipment (PPE) is used when caring for patients with suspected or confirmed Mpox.

4. Disinfect Surfaces and Objects:

• – Regularly clean and disinfect surfaces, especially in shared spaces such as homes, schools, and healthcare facilities.
• – Launder bedding, towels, and clothing used by infected individuals separately from others.

5. Vaccination:

• – The NCDC has announced that Nigeria will receive 10,000 doses of the Jynneos vaccine, which is effective against Mpox. The vaccination campaign will prioritize high-risk groups, including healthcare workers, contacts of confirmed cases, and individuals in areas with high transmission rates.
• – If you fall within the high-risk category, ensure you get vaccinated once the campaign begins.

6. Report Suspected Cases:

• – If you or someone you know exhibits symptoms of Mpox, seek medical attention immediately. Early detection and isolation can help prevent the spread of the virus.
• – Report suspected cases to local health authorities to facilitate contact tracing and containment efforts.

7. Stay Informed:

• – Keep yourself updated on the latest developments regarding Mpox through credible sources such as the NCDC, WHO, and local health authorities.
• – Follow public health advisories and guidelines to reduce the risk of infection.

Mpox is a serious public health threat, but with the right knowledge and preventive measures, we can protect ourselves and our communities.

As the NCDC prepares to roll out the vaccination campaign, it is crucial for all Nigerians to remain vigilant and take proactive steps to prevent the spread of the virus. By practicing good hygiene, minimizing contact with infected individuals and animals, and getting vaccinated, we can collectively curb the spread of Mpox and ensure a healthier future for all.

NAS MEDICAL MISSION