Covid-19 Vs Monkeypox, which one is deadlier?

 

The COVID-19 pandemic shook the world, causing disruption globally. Covid promoted the global response unlike any other. However Monkeypox, another virus now commonly referred to as Mpox has resurfaced and created its own share of concerns. While COVID-19’s death toll is staggering, Mpox has sparked debates about its severity and contagiousness. Which of these two diseases is deadlier?

As the world faces ongoing health crises like Covid-19 and Monkeypox, understanding which disease poses a greater threat can help in making informed health decisions. Alongside this, finding low cost affordable health insurance is critical for families affected by such outbreaks.

 



 

What is Mpox?

Mpox is a viral disease caused by the monkeypox virus, a member of the same family of viruses as smallpox. First discovered in 1958 among laboratory monkeys, it has also been found in other animals, including rodents. The first recorded human case occurred in 1970 in Congo. Mpox remained primarily a localized infection in parts of Africa until recently, when global outbreaks raised awareness. 

 

What is Covid-19? 

COVID-19 is a respiratory disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Symptoms often include fever, cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion, and runny nose. In severe cases, COVID-19 can lead to pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), and death.   

 

Mpox Vs Covid-19, how it spreads

Mpox: Primarily spreads through close contact with an infected person, including direct contact with rash, bodily fluids, respiratory droplets, and contaminated items.

COVID-19: Spreads primarily through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It can also spread through contact with contaminated surfaces.

 

Mpox Vs Covid-19, symptoms

While both diseases share some overlapping symptoms like fever and body aches, there are key differences:

Mpox: Characterized by a distinctive rash, often beginning on the face. Lymph nodes are typically swollen.

COVID-19: Commonly affects the respiratory system, causing symptoms like cough, shortness of breath, and loss of taste or smell.

 

Mpox vs Covid-19, how to stay safe

Prevention measures for both diseases are similar:

Hand hygiene: Frequent handwashing with soap and water or using alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

Respiratory hygiene: Covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.

Social distancing: Maintaining a safe distance from others.

Vaccination: Getting vaccinated against both Mpox and COVID-19 when eligible.

Avoid close contact: Limiting close contact with people who are sick.

 



 

International measures taken by countries for MPox

Several countries have taken significant steps to mitigate the spread of Mpox. When outbreaks began to emerge outside of Africa in 2022, governments acted swiftly to prevent the spread. Many countries rolled out vaccines and isolated confirmed cases to contain the disease. If you're looking for cheap health insurance plans for family, having access to quality care during such health emergencies is vital.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has also been instrumental in tracking Mpox outbreaks and issuing guidelines for prevention. Contact tracing, surveillance of suspected cases, and public health campaigns have been central to curbing its spread. Countries like the United States and the United Kingdom launched vaccination campaigns to protect high-risk populations, and travel advisories were issued to prevent the international spread of Mpox.

 

Many countries implemented measures to control the spread of Mpox, including:

Surveillance: Monitoring cases and identifying outbreaks.

Contact tracing: Identifying and isolating individuals who may have been exposed.

Vaccination: Providing vaccines to high-risk groups.

Public health campaigns: Raising awareness about Mpox prevention and symptoms.

 

Conclusion

While both Mpox and COVID-19 pose significant health risks, COVID-19 has had a more substantial global impact in terms of infections, hospitalizations, and deaths. But, Mpox can cause severe illness and even death, especially in vulnerable populations. It's essential to stay informed about both diseases, practice good hygiene, and follow public health guidelines to protect yourself and others. 

 

FAQ

1. What is the Mpox vaccine?

The Mpox vaccine is derived from the smallpox vaccine, which provides immunity against the monkeypox virus. It is administered to high-risk populations to help control outbreaks.

 

2. Can Mpox cause scars?

Yes, the rash caused by Mpox can leave scars once it heals. The scabs that form during the later stages of the rash can lead to scarring, especially if the lesions are scratched or not properly treated.

 

3. How does Mpox differ from COVID-19 in transmission?

COVID-19 primarily spreads through airborne transmission and can infect people rapidly, even if they are asymptomatic. Mpox, however, spreads through direct contact with infected bodily fluids or materials and requires closer, prolonged contact for transmission.

 

4. Are vaccines available for both COVID-19 and Mpox?

Yes, vaccines are available for both COVID-19 and Mpox. Mass vaccination campaigns have helped mitigate the spread of COVID-19, while the Mpox vaccine, derived from the smallpox vaccine, has been used to control recent outbreaks.

 

5. Can you contract both Mpox and COVID-19 at the same time?

While rare, it is possible to contract both viruses simultaneously if exposed to both. However, such cases are uncommon, and prevention measures like vaccination and hygiene help minimize the risk of infection.

 

6. How long does it take to recover from Mpox?

Mpox generally lasts between 2 to 4 weeks. Most people recover without the need for extensive medical treatment, although some may experience more severe symptoms. Recovery times may vary depending on the individual's overall health and the severity of the infection.