ISLAMABAD: Following the potential spread of Monkeypox, health experts have issued an advisory urging the masses to remain vigilant and adopt precautionary measures.
According to the Rawalpindi District Health Officer for Communicable Diseases, Dr Waqar Ahmed, the incubation period for Monkeypox typically ranges from 5 to 21 days, during which the infected person may not show symptoms but can spread the virus to others. The infectious period starts with the onset of symptoms and can last up to four weeks.
Dr Waqar explained that Monkeypox is primarily transmitted through close contact with infected animals or people, such as through handling or consuming meat from infected animals, contact or respiratory droplets with infected bodily fluids or skin lesions.
Monkeypox virus transmission
The rate of virus transmission can vary depending on several factors, such as exposure level, disease severity, and infection control measures’ effectiveness.
The health officer noted that the risk of transmission is higher in cases where there is prolonged and close contact with infected individuals, such as in households or healthcare settings. Therefore, the use of personal protective equipment and healthy hygiene practices, such as disinfection of contaminated surfaces and handwashing, can help reduce the risk of transmission.
Dr Waqar stressed that while Monkeypox is a rare disease, the risk of transmission outside of endemic areas is still low. However, any individual who has been in close contact with an infected person or animal or has recently traveled to an endemic area and experienced symptoms of Monkeypox should seek medical attention promptly to receive appropriate care and prevent the further spread of the disease.
The health authorities have advised residents to remain cautious and follow precautionary measures to avoid Monkeypox’s potential spread, especially in settings where there is close contact with infected individuals or animals. By adopting appropriate measures, such as personal protective equipment and good hygiene practices, the risk of transmission can be reduced, and the disease can be contained effectively.
