Die Krankheit, die die Welt erschreckt: Was ist Affenpocken und bedroht sie Europa?

Affenpocken sind das nächste große globale Gesundheitsproblem nach COVID. Die Krankheit wurde inzwischen in verschiedenen Regionen der Welt gemeldet. Erfahren Sie, was über diese Infektion bekannt ist, ob es einen Impfstoff dagegen gibt und wo sie sich ausbreitet

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Monkeypox is not a new disease in our world, but its periodic outbreaks on different continents of the Earth show that the virus may appear in regions other than Africa, from where the infection began to spread. More details about this disease and the risks for Europe, we tell you in this material.

What is monkeypox and what are the symptoms?

Monkeypox is a viral disease caused by a virus belonging to the poxvirus family. It was first discovered in 1958 in laboratory monkeys, which is where the name came from. In 1970, the first case of human infection was recorded in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

The incubation period of monkeypox ranges from 5 to 21 days. The main symptoms include fever, headaches, muscle aches, fatigue and enlarged lymph nodes. A few days after the first symptoms appear, a rash appears on the skin and goes through several stages, from spots to fluid-filled blisters. On average, the disease lasts 2-4 weeks, after which there is a gradual recovery.

How is this type of smallpox transmitted?

Monkeypox is transmitted by close contact with an infected person or animal. The virus can be transmitted through bodily fluids, damaged skin, and through droplets released through coughing and sneezing. Infection can also occur through items that have been in contact with an infected person, such as clothing or bedding.

Young children may be among the most vulnerable because their immune systems are still in the process of forming. Some experts believe that young children may be at risk because they have more interaction with each other.

People with weakened immune systems and pregnant women are also more vulnerable.

It is recommended to avoid close contact with monkeypox patients and wash hands with soap and water. Patients should be isolated from others until all lesions on their body have disappeared.

According to WHO recommendations, condoms should be used as a precautionary measure during sexual intercourse for 12 weeks after recovery.

Where has the disease already been detected?

As of August 2024, the World Health Organisation (WHO) continues to monitor outbreaks of monkeypox around the world. The greatest activity of the virus has been recorded in Africa, especially in Central and West Africa, where the disease is endemic. However, since 2022, cases have begun to be recorded in countries in Europe, North America and Asia.

In Europe, monkeypox remains relatively rare, but cases have been reported in a number of countries, including the United Kingdom, France, Spain, Germany, Ukraine and recently in Sweden. The European Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (ECDC) continue to monitor the situation, conducting epidemiological studies and strengthening prevention measures.

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Does monkeypox threaten Europe?

Although monkeypox is not spreading as rapidly as other viral infections such as COVID-19, it is still a cause for concern among health professionals. Outbreaks in Europe show that the virus is capable of spreading outside of Africa, making precautions necessary.

Cases of infection in Europe are mainly associated with travelling to endemic regions or close contact with infected animals. Therefore, experts recommend that travellers take precautions, avoid contact with wild animals and carefully monitor their health after travel.

Is there a vaccine against monkeypox?

Vaccines against monkeypox already exist, but are usually only available for people at risk or those who have had close contact with infected individuals.

However, there is a real concern that the funds available to produce such vaccines may not be sufficient to provide all those in need.

WHO has therefore recently asked pharmaceutical companies to make their smallpox vaccines available for emergency use, even if they have not yet received official approval.

The Danish company Bavarian Nordic, which produces one of the two WHO-approved vaccines, assures that its production capacity is sufficient to meet demand.

Important to know

When travelling to Europe or anywhere in the world, there is always a risk of encountering unforeseen health problems or other emergencies. To protect yourself from unplanned expenses, we advise you to take out a special insurance policy that will cover the costs in case of required medical treatment. 

You can apply for a health insurance policy quickly and without any difficulties at this link.

We remind you! The Ministry of Health has adopted new recommendations to counter COVID-19. How to protect your health and life by adhering to the new vaccination schedule, read here.

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