KNOWING the difference between monkeypox and ordinary smallpox can be the key so that we don’t panic. Moreover, currently, there is a scene of monkeypox cases that are spreading in European countries and have become a concern of the World Health Organization (WHO).
Monkeypox, which was originally a disease endemic to Africa has now infected several people in various countries. According to a report by the World Health Organization (WHO), there are at least 92 confirmed cases and 28 suspected cases of monkeypox from 12 non-endemic countries.
The cause
The causes of monkeypox and ordinary smallpox are certainly different. Monkeypox is caused by the monkeypox virus (MPV), while smallpox usually occurs due to infection with the varicella-zoster virus.
Symptom
Monkeypox and ordinary smallpox have almost the same symptoms, namely the appearance of red spots or rashes which will later turn into blisters filled with fluid. Not only that, the sufferer will experience several health problems such as fever, headache, and fatigue.
The difference is, that the symptoms of monkeypox have symptoms of swollen lymph nodes. Even so, monkeypox turns out to have milder symptoms, which is about 2-4 weeks, and can heal on its own.
Mode of Transmission
Monkeypox and chickenpox are indeed easily transmitted, namely through physical contact that comes into contact with the body fluids of the sufferer. But, according to WHO, the transmission of monkeypox is more difficult than chickenpox.
Although the WHO has not yet developed a vaccine for monkeypox, the European Medicines Agency (EMA) has permitted to use of the regular smallpox vaccine to prevent monkeypox by 2022. Thus information about the difference between monkey smallpox and ordinary smallpox. May we always be healthy, yes.
