How Did Monkeypox Start?
Monkeypox originated as a zoonotic disease, primarily found in wild animals, particularly rodents, in parts of Central and West Africa, with the first human case identified in 1970.
The Zoonotic Roots of Monkeypox
Monkeypox is a viral zoonosis, meaning it is a virus transmitted to humans from animals. While the virus was first identified in monkeys in 1958 during research, which led to its name, the primary natural reservoirs are believed to be various species of rodents, such as squirrels, Gambian pouched rats, and dormice, in African rainforest areas.
The first human case of monkeypox was recorded in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in a 9-month-old boy, after smallpox had been eradicated from the region. Since then, most human cases have occurred in Central and West African countries.
How Monkeypox Spreads from Animals to Humans (Zoonotic Spillover)
The initial spread of monkeypox to humans typically occurs through direct contact with infected animals or their bodily fluids, lesions, or respiratory droplets. This can happen through activities like:
- Handling infected animals: Coming into contact with the blood, meat, or other bodily fluids of an infected animal.
- Bites or scratches: Being bitten or scratched by an infected animal.
- Consuming undercooked meat: Eating improperly cooked meat from infected animals.
A notable example of this zoonotic transmission occurring outside its endemic region was the 2003 outbreak in the United States. In this instance, 47 cases were identified across six Midwestern states. People became ill after having contact with pet prairie dogs that had been exposed to sick, small mammals imported from Ghana, demonstrating how easily the virus can cross species barriers and geographical boundaries.
Human-to-Human Transmission
While the virus originates in animals, it can also spread from person to person through close contact with an infected individual. This includes:
- Direct contact: Skin-to-skin contact with infectious lesions, scabs, or bodily fluids.
- Respiratory droplets: Prolonged face-to-face contact can lead to transmission through large respiratory droplets.
- Contaminated materials: Touching items like bedding, towels, or clothing that have been used by an infected person.
Understanding these transmission routes is crucial for preventing future outbreaks and managing existing ones effectively.
Key Milestones in Monkeypox Understanding
To better understand its emergence, here's a timeline of key events:
| Year | Event | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| 1958 | Virus first identified in laboratory monkeys | Discovery of the virus, leading to its name, during research in Copenhagen. |
| 1970 | First human case recorded | First documented human infection in the Democratic Republic of Congo. |
| 2003 | First outbreak outside Africa | 47 cases in the U.S. linked to imported exotic pets, demonstrating global spread potential. |
| 2022 | Global non-endemic outbreak | Widespread human-to-human transmission in countries where monkeypox is not typically found. |
For more detailed information, you can consult resources from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
