Human monkeypox
- Human monkeypox is a zoonosis that is similar to small pox.
- It was present only in small numbers so that it’s presence was noticed only after small pox was eradicated
- It is mostly seen in central and west Africa
- It is spread from infected animals to humans through close contact
- Person to person transmission is less
- It is not much of a public health problem as the transmissibility of the virus is less
- Monkeypox virus belongs to orthopox virus
- Incubation period is 14 days
- Secondary attack rate is 15% as compared to 30-45% with small pox
- Localised lymphadenopathy is a characteristic feature
- Infection in children is characterised by severe rash and high mortality
- Small pox vaccine is effective in preventing monkeypox
