Monkeypox Cases

Reported Countries

Number of countries with confirmed Monkeypox cases

What is Monkeypox/Mpox?

Monkeypox, also known as Mpox, is a viral zoonotic disease caused by the Monkeypox virus, which belongs to the Orthopoxvirus genus. This disease was first identified in laboratory monkeys in 1958, hence the name, but it is also found in other animals such as rodents and primates and can occasionally infect humans.

The first human case of Monkeypox was recorded in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of Congo, during a period of intensified effort to eliminate smallpox. Since then, Monkeypox has been reported in several central and western African countries, often in proximity to tropical rainforests where there are animals that carry the virus.

The disease is similar to smallpox, though generally milder. Symptoms include fever, headache, muscle aches, backache, swollen lymph nodes, chills, and exhaustion. Within 1 to 3 days (sometimes longer) after the appearance of fever, the patient develops a rash, often beginning on the face then spreading to other parts of the body.

Monkeypox is transmitted to humans through close contact with an infected person or animal, or with material contaminated with the virus. It is important to note that Monkeypox is less contagious than smallpox and causes less severe illness.

In recent years, there has been a resurgence of cases, leading to increased concern and global monitoring. While there is no specific treatment for Monkeypox, outbreaks can be controlled with the smallpox vaccine, antiviral drugs, and supportive care.