Monkeypox has become a worrying health condition in Malaysia, with the latest case recorded in September 2024. The male had symptoms like fever, sore throat, and rash but had not recently traveled. This brings the cumulative total to 10 since last July 2023.
The Ministry of Health has increased the prevalence of entry and capacity tests, significantly improving the screening process. This situation is closely followed, focusing first on public safety. Knowing symptoms and using methods to protect oneself are two main steps that will help minimize risks. [1] [2] [3]
Image alt text: Two students using hand sanitizer while wearing masks and face shields
Monkeypox Symptoms
The symptoms of monkeypox infection are diverse and typically appear one week after infection. This begins as early as one day to three weeks later. Symptoms generally resolve in two to four weeks, though they could be longer in immunocompromised individuals.
Common Symptoms:
- Rash: Often begins on the face and spreads to other areas, including palms and soles. It starts as flat sores, developing into itchy or painful blisters that eventually crust over and fall off.
- Fever: One of the earliest signs of infection.
- Sore Throat: Common in the initial stages.
- Headache: Frequently accompanies other early symptoms.
- Muscle Aches: General body pain may occur.
- Back Pain: A common complaint.
- Fatigue: Noticeable drop in energy levels.
- Swollen Lymph Nodes: Usually tender in the neck, underarms, or groin.
The rash is the first symptom in some cases, while others initially experience fever, muscle aches, or a sore throat. The number of skin lesions can vary widely, from a few to hundreds, and some individuals also experience painful swelling of the rectum or difficulty urinating.
Individuals with monkeypox symptoms can transmit the virus until all sores have healed. Certain groups, such as children and pregnant individuals, are at higher risk for severe illness. Severe cases of monkeypox can lead to significant health complications, including bacterial infections and respiratory issues, and can occasionally be fatal. [4]
Transmission of Monkeypox
Monkeypox primarily spreads through close contact with an infected person. Key modes of transmission include:
- Skin-to-Skin Contact: This includes touching or engaging in sexual activity.
- Mouth-to-Mouth or Mouth-to-Skin Contact: Kissing also falls under this category.
- Face-to-Face Contact: Talking or breathing closely can generate infectious respiratory particles.
During the global outbreak that began in 2022, sexual contact was the predominant mode of transmission. Infected individuals are considered contagious until all their lesions have crusted over and a new layer of skin has formed, usually taking 2 to 4 weeks.
Environmental Transmission
The virus can persist on clothing, bedding, and surfaces an infected person has touched. If another person contacts these items, especially if they have cuts or abrasions, they become infected. Regular cleaning and disinfecting of these surfaces and proper hand hygiene can help prevent this type of transmission.
Vertical Transmission
Monkeypox can also be transmitted during pregnancy from the mother to the fetus, during or after birth through skin-to-skin contact, or from a parent with monkeypox to an infant during close contact.
Asymptomatic Transmission
There is limited information regarding the transmission of monkeypox from asymptomatic individuals. While live virus has been detected in semen, the extent to which it can spread through bodily fluids remains unclear.
Animal to Human Transmission
Humans can contract monkeypox by contacting infected animals, such as certain monkeys or terrestrial rodents, through bites, scratches, or handling contaminated meat.
Preventing Animal to Human Transmission
To reduce the risk of contracting monkeypox from animals, avoid unprotected contact with wild animals, particularly those that are sick or dead. Ensure that any animal products consumed are thoroughly cooked.
Human-to-Animal Transmission
There have been reports of the virus being identified in pet dogs, but it remains uncertain whether these instances were true infections or related to surface contamination. People with confirmed or suspected monkeypox should avoid close physical contact with animals, including pets and livestock, to mitigate the risk of spillback transmission. [5]
Image alt text: Person having temperature checked with an infrared thermometer
Protect Yourself from Monkeypox
When someone in your circle is diagnosed or suspected to have monkeypox, it’s essential to take proactive steps to minimize the risk of transmission:
- Maintain Distance: Stay away from the affected individual, avoiding all forms of close contact, including sexual interactions.
- Stay Vigilant: Familiarize yourself with monkeypox symptoms and conduct regular self-checks.
- Seek Medical Guidance: If you experience any symptoms, consult a healthcare professional immediately and isolate yourself until you receive test results.
- Consider Vaccination: If available, vaccinate against monkeypox to enhance your protection.
- Disinfect Thoroughly: Regularly clean and disinfect areas that have been exposed to the virus from an infected person.
- Stay Informed: Keep updated on the latest monkeypox information and guidelines in your community.
- Communicate Transparently: Discuss any potential symptoms with close contacts, particularly those in sexual relationships.
If you are recovering from monkeypox at home, adhere to these recommendations to prevent further spread:
- Isolate Effectively: Stay in a separate room to limit exposure to others.
- Bathroom Hygiene: Use a private bathroom if available, or ensure thorough disinfection after each use.
- Hand Hygiene: Wash your hands regularly with soap and water or utilize an alcohol-based sanitizer.
- Surface Cleaning: Frequently clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces and objects.
- Avoid Dust Disturbance: Do not sweep or vacuum, as this could disperse viral particles into the air.
- Use Separate Items: Utilize your dishes, cups, bedding, towels, and electronic devices to avoid contact.
- Laundry Precautions: Handle your laundry carefully, placing items in a plastic bag before washing them in hot water (over 60°C).
- Ventilation: Open windows to promote air circulation by keeping your living space well-ventilated. [6]
Closing Remarks
Monkeypox has become a problematic issue in Malaysia with 10 confirmed cases since July 2023. This situation really shows the importance of precautions and preventive measures. The Ministry of Health is increasing public safety by using preventive strategies that they have adopted to control the spread of Monkeypox in Malaysia. However, individuals also have a very big role.
Early identification of symptoms, acquiring knowledge about transmission and good hygiene can guarantee a reduction in the risk of infection. The way we can do this is by checking the updates about this case, as well as implementing the measures which are needed. In this way, we can save our skin and make our communities safe from that disease.
Reference:
- https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/09/17/one-new-mpox-case-detected-says-health-ministry
- https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2024/08/26/mpox-in-malaysia-health-ministry-monitoring-six-suspected-cases-after-confirming-25-out-of-31-are-negative/148257
- https://www.therakyatpost.com/news/2024/08/27/malaysias-mpox-situation-get-familiar-with-mohs-6-key-steps/
