Monkey pox know known as mpox is a new rising threat for world after the corona virus. It is a viral illness/disease. general overview; The term “mpox” is evolved from word “monkeypox” to describe the same viral disease. The outbreak history of mpox highlights its emergence from endemic regions to more widespread international concerns. Here’s a summary of key events that were in history of mpox outbreaks:
Early Observations In early 70s Monkeypox was first identified in laboratory monkeys in Denmark. The name
“monkeypox” was derived from the discovery in these animals, It’s a zoonotic virus transmitted mainly by rodents. Perhaps they are not the primary hosts for the virus. Taxonomy and Virus Family. it belongs to poxviridae family with genus of Ortho poxvirus and species is named as monkeypox.The poxvirus family includes many well-known viruses like variola (smallpox), vaccinia (used in smallpox vaccination), and cowpox. Spread and Outbreak. It became a global concern when for the very first-time human case of mpox was reported. In 1970 in Democratic republic of Congo a nine-month-old boy was diagnosed with small pox which was then identified as the monkeypox.
This case was the beginning of a new virus that could infect human. Endemic Period. These cases were increased and started to spread in between 1970s–1990s: Monkeypox cases were primarily reported in Central and West Africa. Most cases were linked to contact with infected animals or to outbreaks within societies. Increased Awareness and Outbreaks. After 1990 in 2003 An outbreak of monkeypox occurred in the United States, and for the very first time it was significant outbreak outside Africa there were more then 47 cases reported in 7 states of USA, all people infected with mpox in this outbreak became ill after having contact with pet prairie dogs. The pets were infected after being housed near imported small mammals from Ghana.
In 2017 it drew the international attention when this virus outbreak in Nigeria and more then 200 cases were reported. Recent Surge2022: A major outbreak occurred, marking the first time monkeypox spread widely outside of Africa. Cases were reported across multiple countries in Europe, the Americas, and other regions. The outbreak led to over 70,000 cases in more than 100 countries by the end of the year, highlighting the virus’s capacity to spread globally.
The World Health Organization (WHO) declared the monkeypox outbreak a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC), reflecting the urgency of the situation and the need for global coordination in response.
Current Status 2024: The situation continues to evolve, with ongoing efforts to control outbreaks and
prevent further spread. The focus remains on improving diagnostic capabilities, expanding vaccination coverage, and understanding the epidemiological trends of the disease. The history of mpox outbreaks reflects the challenges of managing a zoonotic disease that can transition from endemic to epidemic and eventually to a global health concern.
The international response to these outbreaks underscores the importance of global health preparedness and collaboration. As per reports till now there is only one case reported in Pakistan. A person named Ahmed from Mardan showed up with the symptoms of mpox and was detained by govt health department and the person is now being quarantined in govt hospital in Mardan.
To stop this outbreak Govt need to take serious action and SOPs should be prepared to stop this out break. A public awareness campaign should be started. And got should make a health committee to ensure that virus is under control. There should be a strict check and balance at Airports and public places specially in schools.
Govt should take steps to stop virus to make it worst like corona.
Raja Muhammad Rohan.
2nd year Doctor of Physical therapy,
Department of Rehab and Allied Health Sciences
IIMCT, Riphah International University, Rawalpindi
