Monkeypox cases are increasing, with the virus spreading from Africa to neighboring Pakistan and potentially to India. In response, the Indian government and health departments are taking action, preparing major hospitals for monkeypox patients.
Monkeypox is a contagious disease that spreads from one person to another. In some cases, it can be fatal. Medical experts are advising caution and prevention, especially for those born after 1980. Here’s why people born after 1980 might be at higher risk.
Monkeypox and smallpox viruses have similar symptoms. Monkeypox is a part of the same virus family as smallpox. Smallpox started spreading from Africa to humans many decades ago and later evolved into monkeypox. Smallpox and monkeypox often have similar effects. People who were vaccinated against smallpox might have lower risk of monkeypox.
Why Higher Risk for Those Born After 1980?
Between the 1960s and 1970s, there were many cases of smallpox worldwide. To protect against it, mass vaccination was carried out. As a result, smallpox cases decreased, and by 1980, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared smallpox eradicated and stopped the vaccination program. Only those born before 1980 received the smallpox vaccine. Therefore, people born after 1980, who did not receive this vaccine, may have a higher risk of monkeypox.
How Effective Is the Smallpox Vaccine?
Dr. Jugal Kishore, a well-known epidemiologist, explains that people born before 1980 received the smallpox vaccine, which may reduce their risk of monkeypox. However, this does not mean that vaccinated people cannot get monkeypox; they might experience less severe symptoms compared to those who were not vaccinated. Despite the effectiveness, people should still be cautious.
New Strain of Monkeypox
The current monkeypox strain has changed, increasing the risk. Extra precautions are needed, including enhanced monitoring at international airports. If someone has flu-like symptoms and sores on their body, they should be isolated as soon as possible. Monkeypox is not as contagious as COVID-19, but it can still be serious.
Can We Get the Smallpox Vaccine Now?
Dr. Kishore mentions that in 2022, when monkeypox cases appeared in the US and Europe, smallpox vaccines like Jynneos and ACAM2000 were used to control the outbreak. However, since smallpox was declared eradicated, these vaccines are no longer produced in India. They are only available in the US and Russia. Therefore, people need to stay cautious and protect themselves from monkeypox.
