The world is never free from newly emerged medically-related threats, and monkeypox is the newest disease that poses a threat to the world. After the coronavirus pandemic, the world has been warned and urged to gear up for this new endemic. The virus is most prevalent in Central and West Africa, however, with the globalized nature of today’s world it is likely that the virus may spread to other parts of the world as well. Some cases have been suspected in 12 countries, including the UK , Portugal, Spain, the US and Canada. The National Institute of Health Pakistan has declared that there have been no case of the virus found in the country as of now and all the reports claiming that monkeypox has reached Pakistan are fake.
Monkeypox is a rare zoonotic disease that is caused by a virus called monkeypox. Just like coronavirus, its exact origins are unknown, but according to scientists African rodents and non-human primates, such as monkeys may carry it and transfer it to humans through contact. Two strains of the virus are found, the Congo strain which has a mortality rate of 10% and the West African strain which has a mortality rate of 1%. Monkeypox symptoms are similar but less severe than those of the smallpox virus. They normally appear a week or two after exposure to the virus, though it can take longer in some cases. Monkeypox normally starts with flu-like symptoms, including fever, chills, a headache, and achy muscles. The virus is transferred through skin to skin contact and through air. It can be transmitted through contact with both animals and infected humans.
Although the virus is not as deadly as the coronavirus, still precautions must be taken so that the world does not succumb to another pandemic. Up until now 12 countries have confirmed cases of Monkeypox and if people are not tested before boarding flights then they could easily spread to other countries making many vulnerable to another disease. Pakistan must be vigilant as with the ongoing economic crisis another deadly virus cannot be afforded. Moreover, it must be noted that Coronavirus still exists and is still a threat. The restoration of the NCOC is a good step but the public has to be made aware of the threat that still looms and those that are incoming.
