Table of Contents
Transmission of monkeypox
The Indian government’s guidelines on management of monkeypox disease reveals that transmission of this disease happens either human-to-human or animal-to-human.
In the case of transmission from one human to another, it occurs mostly through large respiratory droplets generally requiring a prolonged close contact. Other reasons may include direct contact with body fluids or lesion material, and indirect contact with lesion material,
such as through contaminated clothing or linens of an infected person.
Whereas, animal-to-human transmission may be a result of a bite or scratch of infected animals such as rats, squirrels or monkeys and apes.
Preventive measures
The Indian government is currently focussing on increasing risk communication and spreading information on preventive measures. This, according to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, is the main prevention strategy for monkeypox.
1. Contact
You must avoid contact with any materials such as bedding, that has been in contact with a sick person.
2. Isolation
Infected patients must be isolated from others.
3. Hand hygiene
Covid-19 has instilled the importance of practicing good hand hygiene among people. Washing hands properly after contact with infected animals or humans is imperative.
4. Protective gear
If you are a caregiver for an infected person, ensure using appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
