Mpox vs. Covid-19: Which is Deadlier?

 

The world has barely recovered from the Covid-19 pandemic, and now another infectious disease, Mpox (formerly known as monkeypox), is causing concern. Both diseases have disrupted lives and economies, but how do they compare in terms of severity? Let's dive in and explore the key differences between Mpox and Covid-19.

 

What is Mpox?

Mpox is a viral zoonotic disease, meaning it can spread from animals to humans. It's caused by the monkeypox virus, which belongs to the same family as the smallpox virus. Although less severe than smallpox, Mpox can still cause significant illness and complications.

 

What is Covid-19?

Covid-19, short for Coronavirus Disease 2019, is a respiratory illness caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. It primarily spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. Covid-19 can range from mild to severe, with some individuals experiencing long-term health issues.

 

Mpox vs. Covid-19: How it Spreads

Both Mpox and Covid-19 can spread through close contact with an infected person. However, there are some key differences in their transmission:

• Mpox: Primarily spreads through direct contact with the infectious rash, scabs, or body fluids of an infected person. It can also spread through respiratory secretions during prolonged face-to-face contact or intimate physical contact.


• Covid-19: Primarily spreads through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. It can also spread by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.

 

Mpox vs. Covid-19: Symptoms

Both diseases can cause a range of symptoms, but there are some distinguishing features:

• Mpox: Typically starts with fever, headache, muscle aches, backache, swollen lymph nodes, chills, and exhaustion. A rash then develops, often beginning on the face and spreading to other parts of the body. The rash goes through different stages, from flat spots to raised bumps, blisters, and finally scabs.  


• Covid-19: Commonly presents with fever, cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion or runny nose, nausea or vomiting, and diarrhea.  

 



 

Mpox vs. Covid-19: How to Stay Safe

Protecting yourself from both Mpox and Covid-19 involves similar preventive measures:

• Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.  


• Avoid close contact: Maintain physical distance from people who are sick, especially those with a rash or respiratory symptoms.  


• Wear a mask: In crowded indoor settings or when in close contact with someone who is sick, wearing a mask can help reduce the spread of respiratory droplets.


• Get vaccinated: Vaccines are available for both Mpox and Covid-19. Consult your healthcare provider to determine if vaccination is right for you.

 

International Measures Taken for Mpox

Recognizing the potential threat of Mpox, countries worldwide have taken steps to contain its spread:

• Surveillance and contact tracing: Identifying and monitoring cases, as well as tracing and notifying close contacts, helps limit transmission.


• Vaccination campaigns: Offering vaccines to high-risk groups, such as healthcare workers and close contacts of infected individuals.


• Public health education: Raising awareness about Mpox symptoms, transmission, and preventive measures.

 

Conclusion

While both Mpox and Covid-19 are infectious diseases that can cause significant illness, Covid-19 has proven to be deadlier, with a higher mortality rate and a wider global impact. However, Mpox remains a concern, and it's crucial to stay informed and take necessary precautions to protect yourself and others.

 

FAQ

1. Is there a vaccine for Mpox?

Yes, there are vaccines available for Mpox. Consult your healthcare provider to determine if vaccination is recommended for you.

 

2. Can Mpox cause long-term complications?

In some cases, Mpox can lead to complications such as skin infections, pneumonia, encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), and eye infections.

 

3. Is Mpox more contagious than Covid-19?

Covid-19 is generally considered more contagious than Mpox, as it primarily spreads through respiratory droplets, which can travel farther and linger in the air.