Abstract

The monkey pox virus is an orthopox virus that may be transmitted to humans and causes symptoms similar to those of smallpox but with a far lower mortality rate. Native to western and central Africa, this virus has caused epidemics in the Western Hemisphere due to exposure via the trade of exotic pets and international travel. Poxviruses have the form of cubes and are encased in a lipoprotein shell that protects a DNA genome that runs in a straight line. Poxvirus genomes encode all proteins necessary for replication, transcription, assembly, and egress; they just depend on host ribosomes for mRNA translation. Similar to smallpox, monkey pox causes a fever, headache, myalgia, tiredness, and lymphadenopathy. After 1–2 days, mucosal lesions appear in the mouth, followed by concentrically located lesions over the face and extremities (especially the palms and soles). The number of lesions, which may range from a few hundred to several thousand, might vary widely depending on whether or not the rash spreads all over the body. It is recommended that the infected individual remain in isolation, wear a surgical mask, and keep lesions covered as much as possible until all crusts on lesions spontaneously break off and a new skin layer emerges. Drugs shown to be effective in animal studies against orthopox viruses and severe vaccinia vaccine after effects may be considered for experimental use in very rare cases. Whether or if the monkey pox virus can be eradicated by the intravenous administration of vaccinia immune globulin, brincidofovir, or tecovirimat, an oral inhibitor of intracellular viral release, remains unknown.

Description