By Marcus Canton
Diseases such as covid still linger as we continue to advance vaccines and medicine in order to adapt to these viruses. Even as we move past covid, new diseases start to break out and create problems. One that started to rise was Monkeypox. Although it’s already starting to die down, what allowed it to spread so quickly? What symptoms does Monkeypox leave? Is this a cause for concern?
The disease originated in Africa, specifically in tropical rainforest areas. Monkeypox was spread through animals in Africa. Animals can spread the virus to humans if we eat meat which is infected. This disease is very similar to smallpox. Monkeypox is transmitted just like any other disease. Close contact with those infected can easily spread it, however, avoiding contact with and consumption of dead animals is a way to avoid the disease. Avoiding even lotions derived from Africa can help to avoid the disease.
The most common symptoms include fevers, headaches, and rashes.
Research shows that since monkeypox and smallpox are so similar, the smallpox vaccine protects against monkeypox. It’s seen as 85% effective against monkeypox. Now smallpox vaccines are being improved to be even more effective against monkeypox.
Despite all the problems this disease can cause, it has already peaked in the US. Monkeypox peaked in the US around August and has been decreasing ever since. The threat has gone down but precautions still need to be taken. We’ve seen how fast a disease can spread with covid. Monkeypox could be a cause for concern but the worst might have already passed.
