Unusual Spread of the Monkeypox Virus

Abstract

The DNA virus known as the monkeypox virus induces monkeypox in both humans and other animals [1]. It is a member of the family Poxviridae and the genus Orthopoxvirus. In addition to the variola (VARV), cowpox (CPX), and vaccinia (VACV) viruses, it is a human orthopoxvirus. It is not a predecessor or a descendent of the variola virus, which causes smallpox. Monkeypox and smallpox are similar, although smallpox has a gentler rash and a lesser fatality rate [2]. The virus has two separate clades in the two places, called Congo Basin (Central African) and West African clades, respectively [1]. The virus's aggressiveness has varied in Central African isolates, with more virulent strains than those from Western Africa. The virus is primarily prevalent in Central and West African tropical forests. It was initially identified in monkeys in 1958, and it was discovered in humans in 1970. Over 400 human cases were documented between 1970 and 1986. Small viral epidemics with a mortality rate of 10% and a secondary human-to-human incidence rate of roughly the same percentage are frequent in tropical Central and West Africa. The most common way to become contaminated is thought to be through contact with an infected person or their body fluid. In 2003, the first outbreak outside of Africa was recorded, and there were no fatalities [3].