Monkeypox (Mpox) is a rare disease caused by the Monkeypox (Mpox) virus, which is a member of the Orthopoxvirus family. It was first identified in laboratory monkeys in 1958, and it started affecting humans in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. While cases are mainly reported in remote regions of Central and West Africa, outbreaks have also occurred outside of these areas, attracting global attention.
Monkeypox (Mpox) symptoms are somewhat similar to smallpox but tend to be milder. After exposure, the virus incubates for 6 to 13 days. Initial symptoms include:
- Fever
- Severe headache
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Backache
- Muscle pain
- Fatigue
A few days after these initial symptoms, a rash develops. It often starts on the face and spreads to other parts of the body. This rash turns into fluid-filled blisters that eventually dry out and form scabs.
How Monkeypox (Mpox) Spreads
Monkeypox (Mpox) can spread from animals to humans through direct contact with the blood, body fluids, or sores of infected animals like monkeys, rodents, and squirrels. It can also spread between people via:
- Direct contact with body fluids or sores
- Respiratory droplets from an infected person
Preventing and Controlling Monkeypox (Mpox)
Here are some key prevention and control measures:
- Avoid contact with wild animals or undercooked meat in areas where Monkeypox (Mpox) is known to occur.
- Use personal protective equipment when caring for individuals with Monkeypox (Mpox).
- Practice good hygiene, including washing hands frequently with soap and water.
- Vaccination with the smallpox vaccine can offer cross-protection against Monkeypox (Mpox).
Disinfection and Additional Precautions
To reduce the risk of spreading the Monkeypox (Mpox) virus, maintaining cleanliness and using effective disinfectants is crucial. UMONIUM38 products are recommended for disinfecting surfaces and instruments in medical settings. These products comply with EN 14885:2018, which ensures their effectiveness against enveloped viruses.
UMONIUM38 Product Line:
UMONIUM38® EQUIPMENTS is a detergent-disinfectant for non-invasive medical devices, effective against microorganisms within 10 minutes. UMONIUM38® EQUIPMENTS safe for various materials like rubber, polycarbonate, acrylic, glass, and Pyrex. A 0.5% dose (25 mL/5 L) cleans blood and biological traces, while 2.5% ensures disinfection in critical cases.
UMONIUM38® INSTRUMENTS rapidly removes organic impurities and decontaminates instruments with a broad-spectrum action. It works effectively against the most resistant strains of germs (MRSA, HIV, HCV, HBV, etc.). UMONIUM38® INSTRUMENTS is a good product is known for its ability to clean and eliminate biofilm, leaving medical instruments spotless. It is non-toxic, does not produce toxic gases, and poses no risk of endocrine disruption. With a neutral pH of 7, it protects instruments from corrosion. It is also biodegradable and eco-friendly.
UMONIUM38® NEUTRALIS is an odorless, colorless high-level detergent and disinfectant, designed for high-risk hospital areas (zones 3 and 4). UMONIUM38® NEUTRALIS certified by Mouse Embryo Assay (MEA) and Human Sperm Survival Assay (HSSA), it ensures safe and effective disinfection of sensitive medical devices, such as neonatology incubators, surgical instruments, sterile areas, and lab benches.
UMONIUM38® STERILY eliminates the need for enzyme or alkaline products, effectively cleaning and pre-disinfecting invasive medical devices through manual brushing or ultrasonic baths. UMONIUM38® STERILY quickly kills microorganisms, leaves instruments spotless, and is safe for operators. Non-hazardous, non-corrosive, and free of toxic vapors, this biodegradable disinfectant can be safely disposed of down the drain. Available in 1 L and 5 L, it is ideal for CSSD transport and dental clinic cleaning.
These products should be used on cleaned surfaces, with a maximum contact time of 5 minutes for surfaces and 60 minutes for instruments. UMONIUM38 has been tested according to:
- EN 14476: Demonstrates more than a 4 log 10 reduction for the Vaccinia virus in clean conditions with a 5-minute contact time.
- EN 17111: Shows more than a 4 log 10 reduction for the Vaccinia virus on instruments with a 60-minute contact time.
What is the Vaccinia Virus? The Vaccinia virus is part of the Orthopoxvirus genus, which includes monkeypox and smallpox viruses. It played a significant role in the global eradication of smallpox. Testing confirms that UMONIUM38 products meet EN 14885:2018 standards and are effective in minimizing virus transmission, including monkeypox.
References:
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2023). Monkeypox. Retrieved from CDC Website
- World Health Organization (WHO). (2023). Monkeypox. Retrieved from WHO Website
