A file photo of monkey pox on the back of a child's hands

Mpox, also known as monkeypox, is a disease caused by infection with a virus, known as monkeypox virus.

According to the US Center of Disease and Control, the virus which causes mpox is part of the same family as the virus that causes smallpox.

The disease usually manifests in the form of rashes which go through several stages, including scabs, before healing.

On the back of a statement released by the Ghana Health Service (GHS) to announce a resurgence of mpox in the Greater Accra Region in Ghana, GhanaWeb offers insight into the transmission, symptoms and the prevention of mpox disease.

Now, how can a person identify mpox and protect him or herself from contracting the disease?

GhanaWeb explores literature on the mpox disease, giving details on the mode of transmission, symptoms, and the prevention of the disease:

How to identify mpox:

The public is advised to pay attention to rashes that look like chickenpox.

The disease can have different appearances at different stages. The rash may start small and then grow larger, making it difficult to determine if it is mpox or just a regular rash.

The best course of action is to avoid self-diagnosing any rash.

The Ghana Health Service urges the public to immediately visit the nearest health facility for proper diagnosis when one finds a rash on the skin.

Mode of transmission

Avoid contact with stray animals, as well as skin-to-skin contact with others.

According to cdc.gov/mpox/about/index.html, mpox is a zoonotic disease - meaning it can be spread between animals and people.

It is a viral disease that is infectious and can spread easily.

It is recommended to avoid skin-to-skin contact. If you are attending a gathering where people may not be wearing much clothing, such as parties or clubs, or are near swimming pools, avoid close contact as they may have a rash that could be easily contracted.

It is noteworthy to state that persons avoid touching people with rashes that resemble chickenpox.

Rashes are typically visible on the face, hands, and mouth, but can also spread to the affected person's private areas.

Do not touch someone's rash if you suspect it could be a serious condition.

How to protect yourself

Do not share towels, bed sheets, or clothing.

Avoid sharing towels or clothing with anyone suspected to have monkey pox.

It is advisable to use separate towels to prevent the contraction and spread of the disease.

If you suspect someone near you has monkeypox, use separate cups and utensils to avoid sharing.

Please report the situation to the nearest hospital or health authority.

Thoroughly wash your hands if you have touched anything that someone with a rash has come into contact with, as this can help prevent potential infection.

Handwashing is one of the best ways to protect yourself, your family, and your friends from contracting other diseases.

VPO/AE

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