Outbreak of the Mpox virus: Expert refutes myths surrounding the viral disease monkeypox

The World Health Organization (WHO) declared the recent MPOX outbreakThis is a global health emergency as the virus continues to spread rapidly across the world. This decision comes amid growing concerns over the rising number of cases and the emergence of a new strain of the virus. However, the current Mpox outbreak has created unfounded concerns through widespread disinformation. How does Mpox spread? Are only certain groups at risk? Ways to prevent Mpox and many such myths revolve around Mpox.

We caught up with Dr. Kuldeep Kumar Grover, Head of Critical Care and Pulmonology at CK Birla Hospital in Gurugram, who debunks myths surrounding Mpox, a viral disease known to cause rashes and flu-like symptoms.

Myth 1: Mpox is highly contagious

Dr. Kuldeep shares that it is a myth that Mpox, like COVID-19, is extremely contagious and spreads rapidly from person to person. Nevertheless, personal contact with an infected person is the main mode of transmission of Mpox, especially through bodily fluids, respiratory droplets, or contact with contaminated objects such as clothing or bedding.

Fact: Mpox is less contagious than many other viral diseases because, unlike airborne viruses, it requires direct contact for transmission. There is little chance of contracting Mpox from brief contact with infected people because the virus is not easily transmitted through casual touch.

Myth 2: Only certain groups are at risk

Dr. Kuldeep shares that it is a myth that only people belonging to a certain group, such as those living in rural or impoverished areas, can get Mpox.

Fact: Mpox is more common in areas such as Central and West Africa. Recent outbreaks have shown that anyone can contract the disease, regardless of where they live or their socioeconomic status. Age, gender or origin do not matter with Mpox, so it is important that everyone understands the risks and takes precautions.

Myth 3: Mpox is always serious

A common misconception is that Mpox is always a serious disease with a high mortality rate, says Dr. Kuldeep. While Mpox is mild and self-limiting in most cases, it can be dangerous in certain situations, especially in people with weakened immune systems.

Fact: Fever, headache, muscle pain, and a rash that turns from red spots to pustules and crusts are common symptoms. In most cases, the disease clears up within two to four weeks without the need for hospitalization. Although the mortality rate varies depending on the strain of the virus and the patient's general condition, it is often low compared to other viral infections.

Myth 4: There is no treatment for Mpox

There is a common misconception that there is no cure for Mpox, raising concerns about an uncontrollable outbreak, explains Dr Kuldeep.

Fact: Supportive care can successfully control symptoms and minimize consequences even in the absence of a specific antiviral drug for Mpox. This care includes preventing secondary infections, controlling pain and fever, and keeping the patient hydrated. Antiviral drugs developed to treat smallpox may occasionally be used off-label to treat severe cases of mumps. In addition, vaccines developed to prevent smallpox have been shown to also prevent Mpox, providing additional protection to susceptible people.

Myth 5: Mpox can only be prevented by avoiding animals

Dr. Kuldeep shares that it is a common myth that the best way to prevent MPOX is to stay away from animals.

Fact: Although Mpox is a zoonosis (it can be transmitted from animals to humans), it can also be transmitted from person to person, especially during epidemics. Therefore, preventive measures should not only consist of staying away from potentially infected animals, but also paying attention to hygiene, which includes frequent hand washing and avoiding close contact with sick people.