Monkeypox is a viral disease caused by the monkeypox virus, which is part of the Orthopoxvirus genus, similar to smallpox but typically a little bit severe. It can be transmitted to humans from animals, and human-to-human transmission can also occur through close contact or respiratory droplets. Monkeypox is a disease caused by the monkeypox virus. Originally, this disease was a zoonotic disease, which means it was transmitted from animals to humans, but this disease can also spread from human to human. Monkeypox can cause a variety of signs and symptoms. The level of symptoms experienced ranges from mild to severe symptoms, if you experience severe symptoms you need to be treated at a health facility. People at higher risk for more severe disease or complications are people who are pregnant, children and people with immune diseases.
This virus has entered Indonesia since 2022 and in 2024 the number of patients affected by this virus increase.The Indonesian Ministry of Health (Kemenkes) announced the latest data on confirmed cases of Monkeypox (Mpox) in Indonesia, as of Saturday (17/8/2024), there were 88 confirmed cases of Mpox. In detail, the cases are spread across DKI Jakarta with 59 confirmed cases, West Java with 13 confirmed cases, Banten with 9 confirmed cases, East Java with 3 confirmed cases, Special Region of Yogyakarta with 3 confirmed cases, and Riau Islands with 1 confirmed case. The Indonesian Ministry of Health, dr. Yudhi Pramono, MARS said that of the 88 confirmed cases, 54 cases met the criteria for whole genome sequencing (WGS) to determine the virus variant. “Of these 54 cases, all are Clade IIB variants. This Clade II has mostly spread the Mpox outbreak in 2022 to date with lower fatality and is transmitted mostly through sexual contact,” said Dr. Yudhi at a press conference on the Development of Mpox Cases in Indonesia, Sunday (18/8/2024).
There are two Clades of Monkeypox viruses, namely Clade I originating from Central Africa (Congo Basin) with subclade 1a. Subclade 1a has a higher Case Fatality Rate (CFR) than other clades and is transmitted through several modes of transmission. Meanwhile, subclade 1b is transmitted mostly through sexual contact with a CFR of 11%. Unlike Clade I, Clade II originates from West Africa with subclades IIa and IIb with a CFR of 3.6%. Clade II has a low CFR with most cases originating from sexual contact during the outbreak in Indonesia 2022.
Because Mpox mainly attacks the skin, Dr. Prasetyadi appealed to anyone suspected of being infected with Mpox and showing symptoms not to manipulate the lesions on the skin such as squeezing and scratching, and should leave the lesions alone. This is because these lesions, both wet and dry, have the potential to transmit the virus. Preventive measures include avoiding contact with animals that could carry the virus, practicing good hygiene, and ensuring that any suspected cases are reported and isolated. Smallpox vaccine is also a key tool in controlling outbreaks, particularly for healthcare workers and those at higher risk.
Detecting monkeypox in humans involves a combination of clinical evaluation and laboratory testing. Monkeypox typically starts with flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle aches, and fatigue. This is followed by a characteristic rash that often begins on the face and then spreads to other parts of the body. The rash evolves from flat spots to raised bumps and then to fluid-filled vesicles and pustules before eventually scabbing over. The healthcare provider will inquire about any recent travel to areas with monkeypox outbreaks or potential contact with animals or people who have been infected.
For laboratory testing PCR is the most common and reliable test for diagnosing monkeypox. It detects the virus’s DNA in samples taken from lesions, blood, or other body fluids. Culturing the virus from lesion samples is another method, but it is less frequently used due to its complexity and time requirements. Because the symptoms of monkeypox can resemble those of other diseases (such as smallpox, chickenpox, or other viral exanthems), healthcare providers need to distinguish monkeypox from other conditions with similar presentations. This often involves a combination of clinical judgment and diagnostic tests.
We can facilitate lab examinations with a tool called EasyNat and also Monkey pox reagent. The samples used can be from skin lesions and oropharyngeal swabs. The process is easier because there is no need for extraction and the results can be obtained within 1 hour. The brand of this tool and reagent is UStar.
If monkey pox is suspected, it’s crucial to seek medical attention promptly. Early diagnosis and isolation can help prevent the spread of the disease and ensure appropriate management. (IJ)
