Monkey Pox: Causes, Infection Phases, and How to Prevent It

Following the conclusion of the global pandemic caused by the Covid-19, there has been a significant increase in media coverage of the potential risks associated with the monkeypox virus for the people of Indonesia. To avoid a similar situation, it is essential to gain a deeper understanding of monkeypox among the public, including those who are reading this article.

What, then, is monkeypox?

In general, monkeypox can be defined as a skin condition triggered by a viral infection. One indication of the condition is the appearance of festering pustules on the surface of the skin, like the appearance of chickenpox.

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More about Monkey Pox

Monkeypox is a skin disease caused by a rare viral infection that originates from animals. This indicates that the transmission of monkeypox is classified as zoonotic, or more commonly, as the monkeypox virus.

The first case of this disease was identified in South Africa in 1970. The disease is also referred to as monkeypox due to the primary host of the virus being the monkey, and the actual form of the disease bearing resemblance to smallpox.

Infection with this virus results in the formation of festering pustules, which subsequently evolve into blisters on the surface of the skin. As with chickenpox, the virus is contagious and is accompanied by a high fever and swollen lymph nodes in the armpits.

Characteristics or Symptoms of the Disease

The monkeypox virus has been observed to exhibit two distinct phases within the body. The first phase is the invasion phase, which is characterized by the initial symptoms of the virus entering and developing in the body, followed by the skin eruption phase, which is clearly marked by symptoms on the skin of the patient.

1. Symptoms during the Invasion Period

The initial symptoms of the invasion period should manifest at this point. While the symptoms are typically less severe than those associated with chickenpox, they can potentially lead to more serious complications.

The initial symptoms of this phase are as follows:

• Fever
• Headache
• Back pain
• Muscle pain
• Fatigue
• Chills
• Swelling of the lymph nodes

After 1 to 3 days, sufferers will experience rashes on several parts of the body ranging from the face, hands, feet, mucous, genital area, to the eye area.

2. Symptoms during the Skin Eruption Period

In this second phase, the rash from the first phase will progress to become a lesion, developing in stages.

• First, macules, the lesions will be discolored but still flat or not prominent.
• Second, papules, the lesions will undergo a slight lifting so that they are distinct from areas of skin that do not have a rash.
• Third, vesicle, the lesion will progressively develop into a lump with clear fluid in it.
• Fourth, pustules, the fluid inside the lesion will begin to turn yellowish.

Once it reaches the fourth stage, the lesions will dry out and begin to slough off. These symptoms will generally last between 2 to 4 weeks and may improve and disappear on their own.

3. Latest Monkey Pox Symptoms

As indicated in one of the articles on halodoc.com, there are several new symptoms and characteristics that have been observed in individuals diagnosed with this disease. In some new cases, the rash initially presents in the genital or anal region.

The disease has been observed to spread beyond the face, hands, and feet to other parts of the body. Additionally, the initial symptoms of monkeypox, such as fever and headache, are no longer present.

There are at least five new symptoms that require close observation.

• The rash first appears in the anus.
• Pain or tenderness in the area inside the anus and rectum.
• Soreness that occurs in the rectum.
• Inflammation of the lining of the rectum.
• Distinct pox lesions filled with fluid or pus that may swell rapidly.

It is strongly advised that anyone exhibiting the aforementioned symptoms seek immediate medical attention, as they are highly indicative of monkeypox.

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Understand the transmission method of monkey pox, reduce the risk

As previously stated in the opening section of this article, monkeypox is initially transmitted from animals to humans. Subsequently, human-to-human transmission occurs via direct contact between the skin of the affected individual and the skin of others.

The incubation period is typically between five and 21 days. It is important to be aware of the most common modes of transmission, which are outlined below.

• Direct contact due to scratches or bites from infected animals
• Consuming meat from infected wild animals
• In the event of contact with contaminated objects,
• The virus enters the body through open wounds, the respiratory tract, or mucous membranes from the eyes, nose, or mouth.
• Direct contact with body fluids or lesion material, or indirect contact with lesion material

To minimize the likelihood of contracting this disease, it is imperative to prioritize personal hygiene and health. By maintaining a strong immune system, the body is better equipped to combat the virus and prevent any adverse effects.

Prevention and Treatment of Monkey Pox Disease

Once the methods of virus transmission have been identified, it is essential to implement robust preventive measures. There are at least five preventative measures that can be readily implemented.

• First, avoid contact with animals that may host the virus (wild animals, rodents, primates, sick animals, or animals found dead).
• Second, avoid physical contact with infected people or objects that have been contaminated with the virus.
• Third, limit the consumption of blood or meat that is not thoroughly cooked, or meat hunted from wild animals.
• Fourth, practice clean and healthy living behavior.
• Fifth, use personal protective equipment when you must make contact or be near people with monkeypox.

Please describe the treatment plan for monkeypox.

As stated on the Siloamhospitals.com website, there is currently no specific treatment for this disease. It is established that monkeypox can resolve itself within a period of 2 to 4 weeks.

The same article notes that some countries are employing the drug tecovirimat as a cure for the disease. These pharmaceuticals function by impeding the replication of the virus, thereby preventing its transmission to other individuals.

If any of the aforementioned symptom’s manifest, it is advised that patients prioritize rest, ensure adequate fluid and nutritional intake to facilitate recovery, and maintain a healthy lifestyle. It is advisable to self-quarantine and consult with a medical professional who can manage this disease and advise on the next steps.

Monkey Pox in Indonesia, Be on the Lookout!

Please be advised that the monkeypox virus was first reported in Indonesia on August 20, 2022. The Indonesian Ministry of Health has announced that, as of Saturday, August 17, 2024, there have been at least 88 confirmed cases of monkeypox across Indonesia. The cases have been confirmed in Jakarta (59 cases), West Java (13 cases), Banten (9 cases), East Java (3 cases), Yogyakarta Special Region (3 cases), and the Riau Islands (1 case).

While the situation remains under control and the rate of spread is not accelerating, it is essential to maintain public vigilance to prevent the emergence of a pandemic. It is essential to maintain a healthy lifestyle to keep the immune system strong. It is also highly recommended to have the right insurance product in place to deal with any unexpected conditions.

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After gaining insight into the nature of monkeypox and the associated risks, we hope you are better equipped to navigate the situation with confidence and sound judgment. For those of you with plans to travel abroad, it is essential to have the right insurance coverage in place, in addition to other preventive measures. AXA Insurance Indonesia is pleased to present Asuransi SmartMedicare Internasional, a comprehensive international travel insurance solution. Rest assured that you and your family's health is safeguarded with this insurance and enjoy the flexibility to choose the coverage area that best suits your needs. The maximum coverage is US$2.9 million per year, with comprehensive benefits. We wish you an enjoyable trip and encourage you to exercise caution and remain aware of the symptoms of monkeypox.

Reference:

• https://sehatnegeriku.kemkes.go.id/baca/rilis-media/20240818/1546252/88-kasus-konfirmasi-mpox-di-indonesia-seksual-sesama-jenis-jadi-salah-satu-penyebab/
• https://fahum.umsu.ac.id/blog/bahaya-pencemaran-wabah-monkeypox-di-indonesia/
• https://www.siloamhospitals.com/informasi-siloam/artikel/cacar-monyet
• https://www.halodoc.com/kesehatan/cacar-monyet#h-gejala-cacar-monyet
• https://www.mitrakeluarga.com/artikel/cacar-monyet
• https://www.alodokter.com/cacar-monyet
• https://www.biofarma.co.id/id/announcement/detail/cacar-monyet-penyebab-gejala-dan-pencegahan-
• https://www.halodoc.com/artikel/waspadai-5-gejala-baru-cacar-monyet