European Watchdog Anticipates an Increase in MPOX Virus Cases During Spring and Summer
The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has recently issued a warning about the MPOX virus, a mosquito-borne disease that affects a thousand people across the continent each year. With the summer season approaching and more people out and about, it is expected that the number of cases of this virus will increase significantly, particularly in areas with high mosquito populations. This article will discuss everything you need to know about MPOX, the symptoms, and how to prevent its spread.
What is MPOX?
The MPOX virus is a mosquito-borne disease caused by the MPOX virus, which belongs to the flavivirus group, which also includes West Nile and dengue fever. The virus is primarily contracted through the bite of infected mosquitoes, which are typically active during the warmer months, spring and summer. These insects are known to breed in stagnant water, which can accumulate in areas such as pools, fountains, and bird baths, so it is important to take precautions to avoid being bitten.
Signs and symptoms
Symptoms of the MPOX virus resemble mild cases of the flu and usually appear between 3-14 days after the person has been bitten. Common symptoms include headaches, muscle and joint pains, fever, and a rash. Symptoms typically last several days to a week and most people make a full recovery with no long-term side effects. However, in rare cases, it can lead to more severe health complications, such as encephalitis, meningitis or even death.
Prevention and control
Prevention measures for the MPOX virus center on avoiding mosquito bites. This can include wearing long-sleeved clothing and using DEET-containing insect repellents when outside, keeping doors and windows closed, especially in the evening and in bedrooms, and draining any standing water around the home. The risk of contracting the virus while traveling can be reduced by avoiding outdoor activities during peak mosquito hours, typically between dusk and dawn, and staying in accommodations with screened windows and air conditioning.
Summary
To summarize, the MPOX virus is a mosquito-borne disease commonly found in Europe, which is transmitted through infected mosquitoes. Symptoms are usually mild and include headaches, muscle and joint pains, fever and rashes. However, the risks of developing more severe health complications are still present. To avoid being infected by the virus, prevention measures include avoiding mosquito bites by wearing protective clothing and applying insect repellents, closing doors and windows, and draining stagnant water around your home. As the summer months arrive, the risk of contracting MPOX is expected to increase, so it’s essential to take appropriate precautions.
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