acozyfuture.com – In recent weeks, Mpox has gained significant global attention due to a resurgence in cases. This disease has seen new outbreaks across multiple regions, including Africa, Europe, and Asia.
The resurgence of Mpox has sparked concern among public health officials about the potential for a new and widespread threat. As the disease continues to spread, a pressing question for many parents is whether their children are at risk of contracting Mpox.
In this blog, we will thoroughly explore Mpox and provide you with crucial information to help protect your children from this emerging health concern.
What Is Mpox?
Mpox, previously known as monkeypox, is a rare infection caused by a virus that typically circulates among animals in the forested regions of Central and West Africa. However, recent reports have indicated that cases have now emerged in various countries [1].
The monkeypox virus was first identified in Copenhagen in late 1958 during two outbreaks of a smallpox-like disease among a colony of cynomolgus monkeys. Prior to the appearance of the disease's characteristic maculopapular rash, no clinical symptoms were observed. The virus was named "monkeypox" due to its close resemblance to other poxviruses [2].
How Is Mpox Transmitted?
Studies indicate that the monkeypox virus can spread through direct contact with an infected individual, including sexual or skin-to-skin interactions, respiratory droplets, and contaminated items such as towels and bedding [3].
Furthermore, the virus may be transmitted from parent to child during pregnancy or childbirth, which may lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, neonatal death, or severe complications for the parent.
Mpox is occasionally transmitted to humans through contact with infected animals. This transmission can occur through bites or scratches from infected animals, as well as during activities such as hunting, skinning, trapping, cooking, handling carcasses, or consuming infected animal meat [4].
Is Mpox a Dangerous Disease?
Mpox is considered a dangerous disease, but its level of severity can vary. In most cases, this disease is self-limiting, meaning it resolves on its own without causing severe complications. However, in some individuals, especially those with weakened immune systems, Mpox can lead to more severe illness.
While the fatality rate for Mpox is generally low, it varies depending on the strain of the virus. The West African strain, which has been responsible for recent outbreaks, has a lower mortality rate compared to the Central African strain [4].
Even with the less severe strain, vulnerable populations may still face serious health risks. Public health measures, including vaccination and isolation of cases, are crucial in preventing and controlling outbreaks.
Are Children at Risk of Contracting Mpox?
Children can be at risk of contracting Mpox, with the level of risk varying based on factors like exposure, immune health, and protective measures in place.
Historical data from past monkeypox outbreaks in Africa indicate that the secondary attack rate among household contacts of infected individuals—especially children under 15 years old who have not been vaccinated against smallpox—could reach up to 12.3% [5].
Complications are more common in children and individuals with weakened immune systems than in healthy adults. These complications include a higher risk of bacterial superinfection, sepsis, keratitis, respiratory issues from pharyngeal abscesses and pneumonia, and encephalitis [6].
Previous Mpox outbreaks have shown that children, including those in high-income countries like the USA, experience higher rates of mortality and hospitalization.
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Mpox?
Here's a list of common signs and symptoms of Mpox:
Fever
- Typically one of the initial symptoms.
- Can be high, often accompanied by chills.
Headache
- Can range from mild to severe.
- Often reported as a persistent or throbbing headache.
Muscle Aches
- Generalized body pain.
- Often described as a dull ache or soreness.
Backache
- Lower back pain that can be severe.
- May accompany other systemic symptoms like fever.
Fatigue
- Extreme tiredness or weakness.
- May persist throughout the illness, affecting daily activities.
Lymphadenopathy
- Swelling of lymph nodes, which can be in various regions such as the neck, armpits, or groin.
- Lymph nodes may become tender and enlarged.
Rash
- Starts as flat red spots (macules) that develop into raised bumps (papules).
- Progresses to fluid-filled vesicles.
- Vesicles eventually become pustules (filled with pus) and then crust over to form scabs.
- The rash often starts on the face and can spread to other parts of the body, including the trunk, arms, and legs.
Skin Lesions
- Lesions usually follow the progression from macules to papules to vesicles to pustules to scabs.
- Can vary in size and may be itchy or painful.
Sore Throat
- Throat may feel scratchy or sore, though this is less common.
Cough
- May occur, especially if respiratory symptoms are present.
- Can be mild to moderate.
Conjunctivitis
- Inflammation of the eye (conjunctiva), leading to redness, itching, and discharge.
- Sometimes observed in conjunction with skin lesions around the eyes.
Gastrointestinal Symptoms
- Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea can occur, though these are less common.
- May be related to systemic illness or secondary infections.
Respiratory Complications
- In severe cases, it can lead to issues such as pneumonia or pharyngeal abscesses.
- Symptoms may include difficulty breathing or a persistent cough.
Encephalitis
- In rare cases, Mpox can lead to inflammation of the brain, causing symptoms such as confusion, seizures, or altered mental status.
The symptoms typically appear 7 to 14 days after exposure to the monkeypox virus, although this can vary. The illness usually lasts 2 to 4 weeks, with the rash progressing through its various stages over several days.
Tips for Protecting Children from Mpox
Mpox infection can be prevented by avoiding contact with infected animals, individuals, or materials that have been used by those with monkeypox. While a vaccine exists that offers some protection against the virus, it is not currently available for widespread public use [1].
Preventing Mpox in children involves several strategies to reduce exposure and enhance protection. Here are some key preventive measures:
Vaccination
Ensure children receive vaccinations if available and recommended by health authorities, especially in areas where Mpox is known to be present.
Good Hygiene Practices
Encourage frequent handwashing with soap and water or the use of hand sanitizer, particularly after touching potentially contaminated surfaces or objects.
Avoiding Contact with Infected Individuals
Keep children away from people who are known to have Mpox or any rash-like illnesses.
Avoiding Contact with Animals
Limit contact with animals that could be infected with Mpox, such as rodents or primates, and avoid handling or coming into contact with animal fluids.
Education on Safe Practices
Teach children not to touch their face with unwashed hands, and to avoid close contact with sick individuals or contaminated items.
Use of Protective Clothing
In areas with known Mpox outbreaks, consider using protective clothing and masks if there is a higher risk of exposure.
Monitoring Health
Keep an eye on any unusual symptoms or rashes in children and seek medical advice promptly if symptoms develop.
Environmental Cleaning
Regularly clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that may be contaminated, especially in shared spaces.
Avoiding Sharing Personal Items
Ensure children do not share personal items like towels, bedding, or utensils that could be contaminated.
Vaccination for Household Contacts
Ensure that household members who might have close contact with the child are up-to-date with their vaccinations and practice good hygiene.
Conclusion
Mpox is a viral illness characterized by a range of symptoms that typically begin with flu-like signs such as fever, headache, and muscle aches, and progress to a distinctive rash that evolves from flat spots to fluid-filled vesicles and scabs.
In children, monkeypox can be particularly concerning, as they are at a higher risk of severe complications including bacterial infections, respiratory issues, and increased hospitalization rates.
The impact on children can be significant, leading to more frequent and severe outcomes compared to healthy adults. To protect children from Mpox, it is crucial to take preventive measures and stay informed about symptoms. By doing this, parents and caregivers can help reduce the risk of Mpox and mitigate its potential impact on their children.
Related Article:
Mpox vs COVID-19: Similarities and Differences Explained
References
[1] Walter K, MD, MS, Malani PN, MD, MSJ. What Is Monkeypox?. JAMA. 2022;328(2):222.
[2] von Magnus P, Andersen EK, Petersen KB, Birch-Andersen A. A pox-like disease in cynomolgus monkeys. Acta Pathol Microbiol Scand 1959;46:156-176.
[3] Rizk JG, Lippi G, Henry BM, Forthal DN, Rizk Y. Prevention and Treatment of Monkeypox. 2022;82:957-963.
[4] Gessain A, M.D., Nakoune E, Ph.D., Yazdanpanah Y, M.D. Monkeypox. N Engl J Med 2022;387:1783-1793.
[5] Jezek Z, Marennikova SS, Mutumbo, M, et al. Human monkeypox: a study of 2,510 contacts of 214 patients. J Infect Dis. 1986;154:551-555.
[6] Yinka-Ogunleye A, Aruna O, Dalhat M, et al. Outbreak of human monkeypox in Nigeria in 2017–18: a clinical and epidemiological report. Lancet Infect Dis. 2019; 19:872-879.