Emergence of an old foe with new challenges: Monkeypox

Abstract

Monkeypox virus, a zoonosis exists sporadically in the tropical rain forest of central and western Africa. Human monkeypox cases were not observed until the early 1970s, despite the monkeypox virus being discovered in 1958. After smallpox eradication, it has been considered the most extensive orthopox virus in humans with serious epidemic prospects due to the rising of human outbreaks in recent years. As of July 2022, monkeypox was announced as a public health crisis. Without understanding its emergence, epidemiology, and ecology, monkeypox has always been perceived as a rare and self-limiting disease. It is imperative that patient groups with high-risk factors and risks of nosocomial transmission should be given increased attention when responding to outbreaks. There is an increased risk of monkeypox being transmitted due to globalization, conflict, and environmental factors, so it is vital that surveillance capabilities are built in order to impart profitable information to design appropriate avoidance, preparedness, and response measures. A growing need exists for the training of health workers as well as the advancement and accessibility of appropriate diagnostic tests, immunization, and antiviral treatment options.