According to the World Health Organization, over 500 monkeypox cases have been discovered in at least 30 countries. Monkeypox is a disease caused by a viral infection. It was first discovered in West Africa. Some of its symptoms include body aches, fever, and skin lesions. In recent cases, monkeypox is seen in men who have sexual intercourse with other men. However, studies show that the condition is not a sexually transmitted infection (STI). But it can be transmitted through body contact during sex.
Studies show that over 200 cases of monkeypox have been discovered in the U.K. since May 7. Countries like Canada and the United States have also experienced a recent increase in cases.
The WHO officials have been monitoring the spread of the condition in Europe and North America for a long time. However, they have not made much progress and more research needs to be done. Experts say the condition will not become a global pandemic, but its risks cannot be overlooked.
What Is Monkeypox?
Monkeypox is an animal disease that can be transferred to humans. It is caused by a viral infection. In most cases, the condition is observed in tropical rainforests, which is the habitat of most animals carrying the virus. The monkeypox virus is a member of a larger group called the orthopoxviral family. The condition contains two unique genetic clades or strains: the Central African (Congo Basin) clade and the West African clade. Studies show that the Central African strain spreads faster and results in more serious symptoms.
Monkeypox is predominantly found in the central and western part of Africa. It is rarely seen in the United States and mainly occurs due to international travels.