Biomedical Letters

Review article | https://doi.org/10.47262/BL/9.1.20230413

Global monkeypox disease outbreak: Prevalence and treatment

Hira Qamar 1, Hira Hafeez 1, Shah Jamal Sarmad 1, Ijaz Ahmad* 1, Ijaz Usman Ali* 1, Sibgha Tul Fatima 1, Kainat Nawaz 1, Muhammad Abrar 1, Sidra Rao 1, Muhammad Fardeen Khan 2, Aliza Asif 3

1 Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Okara, Okara, Pakistan

2 Department of Biotechnology, Institute of Biochemistry, Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Bahawalpur, Pakistan

3 Quaid-e-Azam Medical College, Bahawalpur, Pakistan

Abstract

Monkeypox is a zoonotic disease and caused by the monkeypox virus (MPXV). It belongs to the species of the orthopoxvirus family. Data from several sources, including epidemiological studies, case reports, and clinical trials were included in a thorough literature analyses. Monkeypox was more common in Central and West Africa. Additionally, the virus has been identified in other regions of the world including North America, Europe, and Asia. A feverish sickness and distinctive skin lesions, resembling smallpox, are the primary symptoms of the disease. Preventing serious consequences and secondary transmission requires early diagnosis and effective care. The main therapeutic strategies used include vaccination, antiviral medication, and supportive care. Despite not being created expressly for monkeypox, the smallpox vaccination has shown some promising results in reducing the serious illness. Additionally, antiviral medications such as tecovirimat and cidofovir lower down the morbidity and mortality. To create targeted treatments and improve treatment plans, further research is necessary. In order to lessen the impact of monkeypox on the world, improved monitoring systems, public health education, and international cooperation are reequired. The current study highlights the necessity for ongoing work in disease monitoring, prevention, and therapeutic improvements by providing a thorough assessment of monkeypox viral prevalence and available treatments.