Persistence of Disease: MPVX (Monkeypox)
“Monkeypox can spread to anyone through close, personal, often skin-to-skin contact.” — Center for Disease Control and Prevention
It is no surprise that the environment has an impact on a new outbreak’s timeline. As seen with COVID-19, environmental factors affect the disease’s persistence - the length of time a biological agent remains infectious on a surface. If there were to be another pandemic, the world would struggle to keep the disease contained, which is why awareness and prevention with the monkeypox virus (MPVX) is vital.
The United States Environmental Protection Agency notes that there are six environmental factors that can influence disease outbreaks:
The physical characteristic and amount of a biological agent
Humidity
Temperature
Exposure to simulated sunlight
Type of material
Porosity
Being aware of these factors can help protect us from transmission risks. Studies have noted that monkeypox (MPVX) is transmitted to humans through close contact with surfaces contaminated by infected people. The virus enters the body through open skin, wounds or mucous membranes. MPVX is also classified as a member of the Orthopoxvirus genus, which is known for its long-term stability in the environment. MPXV can be detected on household surfaces even 15 days after the initial contamination.
MPVX is a zoonotic disease - one capable of being passed between humans and other animals - hence why it has been referred to as “monkeypox.” The MPVX virus has been found to be transmissible among several animal species. Non-human primates (including monkeys), dormice, rope and tree squirrels, Gambian pouched rats, and other species are included. The natural history of the virus is still unknown, and more research is needed to pinpoint exact sources and understand how the virus circulates in the wild.
The environments we live in can be at risk. Consuming undercooked meat and other contaminated animal products may be a way of contracting the virus. People who live in or near forests may be exposed to infected animals indirectly. Because droplet respiratory particles require extended face-to-face contact, health professionals, family members, and other close contacts of current patients are more vulnerable. Furthermore, transmission can occur through intimate contact, during labor and delivery, or through the placenta from mother to fetus.
This information is not meant to alarm anyone, but rather to create awareness of the factors that could impact our lives. By understanding the transmission, symptoms, and persistence of a disease, we can work together to prevent and contain larger spreads. Visit the CDC website to view more resources developed to support monkeypox (MPVX) recommendations that can be downloaded or printed.
