Monkeypox cases are increasing rapidly across Europe; data shows the UK is the most affected. One thousand seventy-six people are now affected by the virus, said the UK health security agency(UKSHA). Europe accounts for 86% of the total cases. WHO documented 3,413 infections and one death over the world.
Monkeypox has concerned many countries; almost 50 countries are affected, with 3,413 cases and one death. Out of this, 2,933 cases are reported only in the European region. This makes up 86% of the total number.
The UK health security agency released its most recent statistics on Tuesday, and it shows there are 1076 confirmed cases of monkeypox in Britain. One thousand thirty-five were reported in England, 27 in Scotland, 5 in wales and 9 in Northern Ireland.
What is a monkeypox?
Monkeypox is a viral disease that affects rodents and primates in rainforest areas of west and central Africa. It is closely related to smallpox and barely transmits to humans.
How does it affect humans?
It appears as a rash or pimples or blisters on the different parts of the body. It is generally a self-treated disease that goes off in 2-4 weeks. But in recent years, fatality rates have been increasing. In recent times fatality ratio has been 3-6%.
Symptoms of Monkeypox include fever, headache and body pain.
Dr Sophia Makki, the incident director of UKHSA, has warned about more cases in the coming days and weeks and has advised being alerted. Especially, if you attending large events or making new sexual partners.
Dr Makki said; currently the majority of cases have been in men who are gay and bisexual.
“If you are concerned that you may have monkeypox, don’t go to events, meet friends or have sexual intercourse.
stay at home and contact 111 or your local sexual health service for advice.” She added further.
Treatment and containment
European Medicines Agency said they are going to evaluate if the smallpox vaccine produced by the pharmaceutical company Bavarian Nordic can also be approved for the use against monkeypox. The Vaccine Jynneos has been already approved for the usage against monkeypox by American regulators.
WHO emergency committee has noted that monkeypox needs close observation and has been ignored for years in African nations. WHO emphasised that, it is an emergency and requires an intense response.