Is Monkeypox Similar to Smallpox- A Comprehensive Comparison of the Two Viral Diseases

Is Monkey Pox Like Smallpox?

Monkeypox, a viral disease caused by the monkeypox virus, has recently been making headlines as it spreads across the globe. The question on many people’s minds is, “Is monkeypox like smallpox?” While both diseases are caused by viruses and can cause similar symptoms, there are key differences between the two that are important to understand.

Smallpox, which was declared eradicated in 1980, was a highly contagious and deadly disease that affected millions of people worldwide. Monkeypox, on the other hand, is less severe and has a lower mortality rate. However, both diseases are characterized by a rash and flu-like symptoms, which can make it difficult to distinguish between the two.

The monkeypox virus is part of the same family as the smallpox virus, known as the orthopoxvirus family. This family of viruses includes other diseases such as cowpox and camelpox. While monkeypox and smallpox share some similarities, they also have distinct differences in terms of transmission, symptoms, and treatment.

Firstly, the mode of transmission is different. Smallpox was primarily spread through respiratory droplets and direct contact with infected bodily fluids. Monkeypox, however, is primarily spread through close contact with an infected person’s skin, especially the rash, or through contact with objects that have been contaminated with the virus. This makes monkeypox less contagious than smallpox.

Secondly, the symptoms of monkeypox and smallpox are similar but not identical. Monkeypox typically begins with flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle aches, and fatigue. A few days later, a rash may appear, which can be found on the face, inside the mouth, and on other parts of the body. The rash may progress through several stages, including flat lesions, raised bumps, and pus-filled blisters. In contrast, smallpox’s rash starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body, with more severe symptoms such as bleeding and scarring.

Lastly, treatment and prevention strategies differ between the two diseases. Smallpox was effectively controlled through a vaccine, which was also used to prevent monkeypox. However, the monkeypox vaccine is less effective in preventing the disease compared to the smallpox vaccine. Treatment for monkeypox focuses on managing symptoms and preventing complications, while the smallpox vaccine was the primary tool for prevention and control.

In conclusion, while monkeypox and smallpox share some similarities, such as their viral family and some symptoms, they are distinct diseases with different modes of transmission, severity, and treatment strategies. As monkeypox continues to spread, it is crucial to understand these differences to effectively manage and prevent the disease.