Monkeypox (Mpox), a zoonotic disease similar to smallpox, is caused by the monkeypox virus and transmitted to humans via infected animals or contaminated materials. Human-to-human transmission occurs through respiratory droplets or contact with infected bodily fluids and objects. Symptoms include fever, headache, muscle aches, and a rash, with severe cases leading to pneumonia, meningitis, and encephalitis. First identified in monkeys in 1958 and humans in 1970, Mpox has since caused sporadic outbreaks, with the largest starting in May 2022. Integrating human, animal, and environmental health into the One Health approach is crucial for early detection, surveillance, research, education, and community engagement to prevent and effectively control Mpox outbreaks.
Key words: Mpox; Monkeypox; One Health; control strategies; public health
|
