Missed Early Symptoms Increase Transmission Risk
An Indian-origin expert has warned that the ongoing monkeypox outbreak in the United States could potentially establish itself as a permanent sexually transmitted infection (STI). Dr. Jay Varma, an epidemiologist at Weill Cornell Medical School, highlights the ease with which the early symptoms of monkeypox can be missed. The virus initially presents innocuous signs in hard-to-see places in the human body, providing a window for transmission before more obvious symptoms like flu-like illness and body rashes emerge, according to a report by the Daily Mail.
Lack of STI Testing Adds to the Challenge
Dr. Varma also points out that the lack of STI testing in the US contributes to the problem. Many cases of monkeypox may be going undiagnosed due to a lack of testing, resulting in the potential for further transmission. The early skin changes associated with monkeypox can be easily missed or mistaken for other infections, such as herpes or syphilis, by individuals without expertise in evaluating STIs. The virus is highly contagious, and contaminated surfaces or materials like towels can also spread the infection to others.
Monkeypox Outbreak Not Declared a Global Health Emergency
Although the monkeypox outbreak has been escalating in more than 50 countries, the World Health Organization (WHO) has not declared it a global health emergency. While acknowledging the need for close monitoring, the WHO has stated that the current situation does not warrant such a declaration. The organization also emphasizes that although the outbreak has been observed primarily among men who have sex with men, monkeypox itself is not exclusively a sexually transmitted infection, and anyone can contract the virus.
While the monkeypox outbreak has raised concerns globally, the World Health Organization (WHO) has not declared it a global health emergency at this stage. The WHO emphasizes the importance of closely monitoring the situation but does not believe it warrants the emergency designation. It is crucial to note that although the current outbreak has primarily affected men who have sex with men, monkeypox is not exclusively a sexually transmitted infection. The virus can be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact during sexual activities, similar to other infections like herpes or syphilis.
The increasing number of sexually transmitted infections nationwide, including common ones like chlamydia and gonorrhea, highlights the challenges faced in managing these diseases. Interruptions to testing during the COVID-19 pandemic have contributed to a surge in STIs, and it is likely that cases of monkeypox are also going undiagnosed or misdiagnosed as other infections. To mitigate the spread of monkeypox and other STIs, experts stress the importance of increased testing, education, and awareness campaigns to promote early detection and appropriate treatment.
