By Demi Conteh edited by Michael Brand
During COVID-19, other diseases were also suppressed because of preventative policies like masking and social distancing. As countries become more relaxed with their preventive restrictions, we have seen a resurgence of other diseases. Monkeypox is one of these diseases. The World Health Organization, reported that in just under 30 days, cases of monkeypox have been reported from 28 countries. The outbreak began earlier this year in Africa, but it has spread across boarders as the majority of the recent cases have been in Europe and America, which is especially scary given the disease has a 10% death rate.
Given the COVID restrictions the spread of Monkeypox was unexpected especially since scientists believe Monkeypox is a disease that only spreads with direct contact. Epidemical investigations have focused on newly affected countries using sexual health or other health services in primary or secondary health care facilities with travel history to track carriers of the disease. The investigations noted that “the virus itself is not a sexually transmitted infection, which are generally spread through semen and vaginal fluids, the most recent surge in cases appears to have been spread among men who have sex with other men” (Kopeki).
In the countries that have long experienced monkeypox, deeper analysis is needed to comprehend the ongoing and new sources of infection. The new spread of monkeypox has reshaped our initial understanding of the disease. As health officials conduct their investigations it is important to remember to take precautions like self diagnosing symptoms and avoiding sexual activity with those who have symptoms - the main symptom being rashes.
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