Monkeypox

2024 - 8 - 19

Monkey Business: Is Mpox the New Pandemic to Fear?

Global Health - Health Measures - Monkeypox - Monkeypox Monitoring - Monkeypox Testing - Mpox - Public Health Emergency - Viral Outbreak - WHO - Mpox outbreak - m pox virus - monkey pox - mpox - mpox symptoms - mpox virus

With Mpox being declared a public health emergency by the WHO, find out why everyone should be paying attention!

As the world grapples with lingering pandemic aftermaths, the emergence of monkeypox, or as the cool kids call it—mpox—has sparked serious global concern. The World Health Organization (WHO) recently declared this infectious disease a public health emergency of international concern, a title that sounds like it came straight out of a sci-fi movie. With cases popping up outside of Africa, there’s no denying the urgency to keep an eye (or two) on this cheeky monkey virus!

The WHO’s decision also shines a spotlight on the nitty-gritty of disease naming. Ever wonder why it’s now referred to as mpox instead of monkeypox? Well, that’s a WHO thing, governed by the International Classification of Diseases. In a world that's already struggling to tackle Covid-19, misinformation can mislead the masses. Hence, renaming diseases aims to remove stigma while keeping everyone informed.

Meanwhile, health ministries across countries are kicking into high gear. For instance, India’s Union Health Ministry is stepping up precautionary measures despite no reported cases yet. In Pakistan, stringent monitoring has been directed, emphasizing screening at Karachi airport. Passengers are being watched closer than hawks looking for their next meal! And who can blame them? With concerns raised about more virulent strains emerging, it’s clear that vigilance is key.

Countries like Sri Lanka aren't sleeping on the matter either; they're on high alert due to the spike in mpox cases globally. Everyone seems to be watching this monkey dance, making it the most famous primate since King Kong! Countries need to stay connected, investigating and implementing screening measures to prevent this potential ticking time bomb from exploding into a full-blown pandemic.

Interesting Fact: Did you know monkeypox was first discovered in laboratory monkeys in 1958? It’s safe to say those monkeys had no idea they would spark a global health scare years later! Also, while monkeypox is similar to smallpox, it is usually milder and doesn’t spread as easily. Always a plus when dodging a potential global crisis!

Post cover — Image courtesy of "Monash Lens"

Monkeypox

Monkey Business: Is Mpox the New Pandemic to Fear?

Explore the last week