TRANSMISSION OF MONKEYPOX VIRUS ON ANIMAL AND HUMANS IN NIGERIa

Project Abstract

Monkeypox is a zoonotic disease caused by Monkeypox virus (MPXV), a member of the Orthopoxvirus genus. The virus has been identified in various countries including Nigeria where sporadic outbreaks have been reported. Understanding the transmission dynamics of Monkeypox virus from animals to humans is crucial for effective control and prevention strategies. This study aimed to investigate the transmission of Monkeypox virus between animals and humans in Nigeria. A comprehensive literature review was conducted to gather existing knowledge on the epidemiology, transmission, and risk factors associated with Monkeypox virus infection in Nigeria. The review revealed that Monkeypox virus is primarily transmitted to humans through direct contact with infected animals, especially rodents such as squirrels, and through human-to-human transmission. Factors contributing to the transmission of Monkeypox virus in Nigeria include close contact with infected animals, consumption of contaminated bushmeat, and poor hygiene practices. In addition to the literature review, field investigations were carried out in various regions of Nigeria to collect data on suspected Monkeypox cases in both animals and humans. Samples were collected from suspected cases and tested for the presence of Monkeypox virus using molecular diagnostic techniques. The results indicated a high prevalence of Monkeypox virus in rodents such as squirrels and other small mammals across different regions of Nigeria. Furthermore, interviews and surveys were conducted with local communities to assess their knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to Monkeypox virus transmission. The findings revealed gaps in understanding the risks associated with handling infected animals and the importance of practicing good hygiene to prevent infection. Education and awareness campaigns were conducted to disseminate information on the transmission of Monkeypox virus and promote preventive measures such as hand hygiene and avoiding contact with sick or dead animals. In conclusion, this study provides valuable insights into the transmission dynamics of Monkeypox virus between animals and humans in Nigeria. The findings underscore the importance of surveillance, early detection, and public health interventions to prevent and control outbreaks of Monkeypox virus in both animal and human populations. Implementing One Health approaches that integrate veterinary and human health systems is essential for mitigating the risks of zoonotic diseases like Monkeypox in Nigeria.

Project Overview

INTRODUCTIONBACKGROUND TO THE INFORMATIONMonkeypox is an infectious disease caused by the monkeypox virus. CDC. (2015) Symptoms begin with fever, headache, muscle pains, swollen lymph nodes, and feeling tired.[1] This is then followed by a rash that forms blisters and crusts over.[1] The time from exposure to onset of symptoms is around 10 days.[1] The duration of symptoms is typically 2 to 5 weeks. CDC. (2015)Monkeypox may be spread from handling bush meat, an animal bite or scratch, body fluids, contaminated objects, or close contact with an infected person. Hutin, Williams, Malfait P (2001). The virus is believed to normally circulate among certain rodents in Africa. Diagnosis can be confirmed by testing a lesion for the viruses DNA.[3] The disease can appear similar to chickenpox.The smallpox vaccine is believed to prevent infection. McCollum, and Damon, (2003) Cidofovir may be useful as treatment.[4] The risk of death in those infected is up to 10%.The virus can spread both from animal to human and from human to human. Infection from animal to human can occur via an animal bite or by direct contact with an infected animal’s bodily fluids. The virus can spread from human to human by both respiratory (airborne) contact and contact with infected person’s bodily fluids. Risk factors for transmission include sharing a bed, room, or using the same utensils as an infected patient. Increased transmission risk associated with factors involving introduction of virus to the oral mucosa. Kantele A, Chickering K, Vapalahti O, Rimoin AW (2016) Incubation period is 10–14 days. Prodromal symptoms include swelling of lymph nodes, muscle pain, headache, fever, prior to the emergence of the rash. The rash is usually only present on the trunk but has the capacity to spread to the palms and soles of the feet, occurring in a centrifugal distribution. The initial macular lesions exhibit a papular, then vesicular and pustular appearance. Kantele A, Chickering K, Vapalahti O, Rimoin AW (2016).