When thinking about the worst epidemics and pandemics of the century, the first thing that comes to mind is smallpox. Responsible for millions of deaths over several centuries, smallpox was the inspiration for the world’s first vaccination efforts, which ultimately led to its global eradication in 1980. But although smallpox is no longer a threat, its viral cousin , monkeypox (Mpox), has recently arrived. He gained attention due to his appearances in numerous countries, including India. India reported its first case of monkeypox in Kerala. Being the sister of smallpox, and after the havoc caused by the Covid pandemic, monkeypox has become a cause of concern for the medical fraternity of the country.
Although both smallpox and monkeypox belong to the same viral family and share similar symptoms, they differ greatly in terms of transmission and severity. This blog discusses the differences between the two.
What is smallpox?
Smallpox is a highly contagious viral disease caused by the Variola virus, which primarily affects humans. Known for its devastating impact over the centuries, smallpox was responsible for a significant number of deaths before a global vaccination campaign led to its eradication in 1980. Its symptoms include high fever, a characteristic skin rash and body aches. intense. Smallpox was a feared disease, with a high mortality rate of around 30% in those infected.
Once a person recovered from smallpox, they were usually immune for life. However, there was no treatment or cure other than symptomatic relief. The best way to combat smallpox was through vaccination, which led to its eventual eradication.
What is monkeypox?
Monkeypox, although related to smallpox, is a much less serious viral disease caused by the Mpox virus. First discovered in monkeys in 1958 and in humans in 1970, monkeypox occurs primarily in the central and western African regions, although outbreaks have occurred in other parts of the world in recent years, including India just a few days ago . The symptoms of Mpox are similar to those of smallpox, but tend to be milder and less fatal.
Key symptoms of monkeypox:
Fever: Like smallpox, monkeypox begins with a fever.
Swollen lymph nodes: One notable difference from smallpox is that monkeypox causes swelling of the lymph nodes.
Rash and lesions: A rash similar to smallpox, but the lesions tend to be less dense.
Muscle pain, fatigue and chills.
The mortality rate of monkeypox is much lower than that of smallpox, typically between 1% and 10%, with higher risks in younger people and those with weakened immune systems.
Transmission: How is monkeypox spread?
Smallpox transmission occurs through close contact with an infected person or contaminated objects. The virus is primarily transmitted through respiratory droplets, making it highly contagious in crowded environments. Direct contact with bodily fluids or materials such as bedding that have been in contact with an infected person can also lead to transmission. Once a person is infected, they become contagious as soon as the rash develops.
Mpox transmission also occurs through close contact with an infected person or animal. However, in addition to respiratory droplets, it can be spread through contact with body fluids from infected animals (such as monkeys, rats, and squirrels), contaminated materials, or bites from infected animals. Mpox does not spread as easily between humans as smallpox, making it less contagious overall. Still, recent outbreaks in regions outside Africa suggest that the virus can spread through human-to-human contact in certain situations.
Severity and mortality rates
Smallpox is known for its high mortality rate and devastating impact. With a mortality rate of around 30%, it was one of the deadliest diseases known to humanity before its eradication. Survivors were often left with permanent scars, especially on the face, and some suffered from blindness.
Monkeypox, on the other hand, is usually less serious. Its mortality rate ranges between 1% and 10%, and most deaths occur in children or immunocompromised people. The severity of monkeypox infections may also depend on the strain of the virus, with the Central African strain being more virulent than the West African strain.
Final thoughts
While both monkeypox and smallpox belong to the same viral family, they affect humans differently in terms of severity, transmission, and mortality. Smallpox was a deadly disease that claimed millions of lives before its eradication, while smallpox is generally less serious but still poses a public health challenge in certain regions.
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