Monkeypox Vaccine Overview – Many diseases contribute to high mortality rates globally. Only a few have effective treatments, despite the ongoing efforts of medical experts and researchers. One such disease is monkeypox, which was identified in 1958. Initially, the origins and treatment of this illness were unclear, but over time, scientists have gained insights into its causes and spread.
In this article, we will explore the monkeypox virus, its side effects, effectiveness of the vaccine, and pricing details. Let’s uncover the benefits of vaccination against monkeypox.
Understanding the Monkeypox Virus
The monkeypox virus is responsible for the disease of the same name. It is closely related to smallpox but is considered a more dangerous illness. Classified under the Poxviridae family, specifically as an Orthopoxvirus, it shares this category with the viruses that cause variola (smallpox), cowpox, and camelpox, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). For more details, visit “cowin.gov.in”.
The first known human case was recorded in 1970 in a nine-month-old child in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It has been observed that humans are more susceptible to monkeypox than wild animals, although the virus typically poses a greater threat to animals than to humans.
Current Situation: Monkeypox Cases
- Health authorities in the United Kingdom reported monkeypox cases starting in early May 2024.
- Additional cases were subsequently identified in several European countries.
- By mid-May, the first cases appeared in Canada and the United States.
- On July 23, the World Health Organization declared the outbreak a public health emergency of international concern, noting over 16,000 reported cases across 75 countries and territories.
Variants of Monkeypox
Several variants of the monkeypox virus have been identified:
- West African clade
- Congo Basin clade
Experts believe the Congo Basin clade is more likely to cause severe infections and may be more transmissible than the West African clade.
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Geographic Impact of Monkeypox
- Historically, monkeypox was primarily located in Central and Western Africa.
- It has propagated through countries such as the DRC, RCA, Nigeria, CAR, Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire, Gabon, Liberia, Sierra Leone, and Sudan.
- As of 2022, 75 nations reported approximately 16,000 cases, prompting the WHO to declare it a global health emergency.
- In 2003, cases were identified in the United States.
- Cases have also emerged in the UK, Israel, and Singapore between 2003 and 2024.
Symptoms of Monkeypox
The symptoms associated with monkeypox include:
- Fever
- Headache
- Muscle Aches
- Fatigue
- Swollen lymph nodes
Rashes may develop subsequent to these symptoms, often starting in the mouth and facial area before spreading elsewhere on the body. Symptoms typically resolve within two to four weeks; however, children under eight, particularly those born to pregnant or nursing mothers with weakened immune systems, face a higher risk for severe infections.
How is Monkeypox Transmitted?
People can contract monkeypox from infected animals. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), humans are at risk if they are bitten or scratched by an infected animal, or if they consume its meat. Additionally, close contact with an infected person can also result in transmission, although it remains unclear whether the virus spreads through breast milk, sperm, vaginal fluids, or blood.
Guidelines for Individuals with Monkeypox
- Infected individuals should monitor their health for 21 days after exposure.
- They must watch for symptoms such as fever, chills, swelling, and skin rashes.
- Upon developing symptoms, they should self-isolate and consult a healthcare professional for further advice.
- Maintain hygiene by using a separate bathroom and cleaning after each use.
- Frequently touch surfaces should be cleaned with soap, water, and disinfectants, and avoid sweeping or vacuuming.
- Utensils, towels, bedding, and electronics should not be shared.
- Items should be placed in a plastic bag before cleaning to avoid contamination and laundered with hot water.
- Ensure proper ventilation by opening windows.
- Encourage hand hygiene for everyone in the house using soap and water or alcohol-based sanitizer.
Availability of Monkeypox Vaccine
Individuals recently exposed to monkeypox may receive one of the following vaccines:
- JYNNEOS
- ACAM2000
The CDC advises vaccination within four days of exposure to prevent disease onset. Vaccination within four to fourteen days can help mitigate symptoms. However, the WHO has emphasized a lack of data regarding vaccine efficacy and the number of required doses, urging nations to collect and share relevant information regarding vaccination effectiveness.
Those vaccinated with MVA should refrain from close contact or sexual relations with individuals at risk for monkeypox.
Updating on India’s Monkeypox Vaccine Status
- The Indian government has not yet released guidelines on priority vaccination or high-risk individuals.
- People under 45 are particularly at risk due to a lack of smallpox vaccination, as these immunizations ceased after the successful eradication of smallpox in 1978 in India.
- Indian Immunologicals Ltd. is in the process of developing a vaccine to address the global public health issue posed by monkeypox.
- Recent information indicates that IMCR has isolated the monkeypox virus successfully.
- The company has reached out to one of the two global manufacturers of smallpox vaccines located in the USA and Europe to secure doses for staff involved in the vaccine development process, ensuring their protection during the development phase.