The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a stark warning about the global spread of monkeypox, originating from outbreaks in the Democratic Republic of Congo. With over 13,000 suspected cases worldwide and a death toll surpassing 600, the situation is of grave concern.
This animal-borne disease is capable of infecting humans in direct contact with affected animals. The transmission occurs through bodily fluids, respiratory particles, and contaminants on surfaces, leading to rapid virus dissemination. While initially confined to Africa, monkeypox has now breached borders, prompting the WHO to declare a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) on 23 July, slated to conclude on 11 May this year due to the alarming surge in infection rates.
Monkeypox, resembling other pox diseases, primarily manifests in the central and western tropical rain-fed forests of Africa. Although the virus was first identified in 1958, its infection was localized in Congo in 1970. While many patients recover within weeks, severe consequences, including fatalities, are observed in some cases, particularly among infants and children. WHO reports indicate potential complications such as skin problems, pneumonia, schizophrenia, and eye-related issues.
Despite WHO’s assertion that the disease is not considered highly serious, infectious disease experts express apprehension about the virus gaining a foothold in previously unaffected countries. The infection rate witnessed a significant 77 per cent increase from late June to early July, with a notable vulnerability observed in men engaged in homosexual activities.
In a world grappling with financial crises, climate change-induced natural disasters, food insecurity exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic, global economic turmoil, and armed conflicts, monkeypox has emerged as a perilous infectious disease in certain regions. This underscores the formidable challenges faced by humanity in the 21st century.
While there is optimism about controlling the disease, concerns persist about its potential impact in countries unfamiliar with the virus. Drawing parallels with global efforts against the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, the world must unite to confront the challenges posed by monkeypox. The people of Myanmar, among others, are urged to adhere to recommended precautions to mitigate the risk of unnecessary consequences associated with the disease.
Although the whole world has faced numerous crises and challenges, finally it could overcome challenges through collaborative efforts of various countries. The world adapting with Covid-19 pandemic is believed to properly fight against monkeypox. However, people of Myanmar have to follow dos and don’ts related to monkeypox to be free from unnecessary bad subsequences.
