Isolation of patients is important in preventing monkeypox transmission

 Monkeypox

New cases of Monkeypox are being reported in Kerala, and in this context, it's imperative that we follow certain medical protocols to prevent transmission of this disease. According to Institute of Applied Dermatology (IAD) senior dermatologist Dr K S Prasanna, the most important aspect to prevent transmission is isolation of monkeypox patients for 21 days.

Monkeypox spreads from one person to another through contact, respiratory droplets, and contaminated objects. After a 7-17 day incubation period, patients experience fever, chills, weakness, headache, body aches, and distinctive lymph node swelling. The most common sites of affections are hands and feet and face while private parts (genital) ulcers and bullae are also known to occur with groin swelling and it is often not reported by the patients. A characteristic rash develops 1-3 days after fever onset, progressing from macules to papules, vesicles, and finally pustules before scabbing over.

"Monkeypox is infectious from two days before rash onset until all scabs fall off. So strict isolation during the entire period of infection prevents transmission. Also, isolation allows for close observation of symptom progression and early detection of potential complications like pneumonia, encephalitis, or other infections," Dr Prasanna said, adding that Monkeypox patients must ensure that they stay properly hydrated and take adequate nutritious food, which are crucial for recovery.

Close observation of vital statistics of the patient, including body temperature, respiratory rate, blood pressure, heart rate, and skin lesions, is also important in patient management. Though there's no specific cure for monkeypox, symptomatic treatment and supportive care are essential in patient care management.