Mpox vs. COVID-19: A Comparative Analysis

Both Mpox and COVID-19 are viral infections that present with overlapping symptoms such as fever, cough and fatigue. Because the symptoms are so similar, identifying the specific infection a person may have can be difficult in the early stages without adequate testing.

Because MPox has spread so quickly, reaching almost 120 countries, it is clear that MPox could be the new “COVID-19” in terms of its global impact.

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According to the statement by WHO officials, it is worth noting that MPox is different from COVID-19, which indicates that the possibility of another COVID-19-like pandemic is very low.

So, what is the difference between mPox and COVID-19? Let’s understand how they differ in terms of transmission, severity, and potential long-term health effects.

Mpox transmission

Cowpox is spread primarily through direct contact with an infected person’s rash, scabs, or body fluids. Cowpox can also be spread through respiratory droplets during prolonged face-to-face contact or through contact with contaminated items such as bedding. Sexual contact can also help spread cowpox.

COVID-19 Spread

In contrast, COVID-19 spreads primarily through respiratory droplets and aerosols produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes, talks or breathes. The virus can also be spread by touching a surface contaminated with the virus and then touching your face.

Risk Factors: Who is More Vulnerable?

Both mpox and COVID-19 have specific risk factors that make certain populations more susceptible to severe illness.

Mpox Risk Factors

With mpox, young children, people with weakened immune systems (including people with HIV), and pregnant women are at higher risk for complications.

COVID-19 Risk Factors

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On the other hand, COVID-19 poses a greater risk to older adults and people with underlying medical conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes, or obesity. In addition, vaccination status plays an important role in determining vulnerability; unvaccinated people are at higher risk for severe outcomes from COVID-19.

Treatment and prevention: what to do

Treatment and prevention strategies for mpox and COVID-19 vary depending on their nature and mode of transmission.

Mpox Treatment and Prevention

For MPOX, supportive care is usually provided to manage symptoms, while vaccination may be recommended for contacts or those at high risk. Maintaining good personal hygiene and avoiding close contact with infected people are essential preventive measures.

COVID-19 Treatment and Prevention

In contrast, COVID-19 management involves isolating or quarantining infected people, and maintaining social distance to reduce transmission. Vaccination remains the cornerstone of COVID-19 prevention, along with personal hygiene practices such as washing hands and wearing masks in crowded settings.

Vaccination: Protect yourself

Vaccination plays a vital role in preventing both swine pox and COVID-19.

Smallpox vaccine

For smallpox, the smallpox vaccine provides some protection because the two viruses are similar; during outbreaks or for people at higher risk of exposure, specific vaccines such as JYNNEOS and ACAM2000 are available.

COVID-19 Vaccination

In the case of the COVID-19 pandemic, multiple vaccines have been developed and widely distributed around the world, such as Covishield, Covaxin, Novavax, Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna, which have been shown to effectively reduce the risk of severe illness and hospitalization.

When to Seek Medical Help: Know When to Take Action

Knowing when to seek medical attention is critical for both mpox and COVID-19.

Mpox: When to seek medical care

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People who suspect they have been infected with mpox, especially if they have typical symptoms such as a rash, should see a doctor immediately to confirm the diagnosis and receive appropriate treatment. Severe cases or complications may require immediate medical attention.

COVID-19: When to seek medical care

Likewise, anyone experiencing symptoms consistent with COVID-19, if they have been exposed to the virus or if their symptoms significantly worsen, should consult a healthcare provider. Early intervention can improve outcomes for both illnesses.

Importance of Early Detection: Why It Is So Important

Early detection of mpox and COVID-19 is crucial for effective management and control of the outbreak.

Mpox: Early Detection

For mpox, early recognition of symptoms can help prevent its further spread within the community and allow for timely medical intervention to effectively manage complications.

COVID-19: Early Detection

In the case of the COVID-19 pandemic, early detection enables faster isolation of infected people and facilitates contact tracing, which is critical to controlling the spread of the epidemic.

Dispelling rumors and misinformation: setting the record straight

Misinformation about MPox and COVID-19 can hinder public health efforts; therefore, it is important to dispel common misconceptions.

Myths and misunderstandings about Mpox

For example, many people believe that MPox is a new disease; however, it has been known for decades but has recently gained attention due to the outbreak. Another misconception is that MPox spreads as quickly as COVID-19; in fact, it requires close contact to spread.

Myths and misconceptions about COVID-19

There are myths about COVID-19, with some people downplaying its severity and claiming it is not life-threatening; however, it can cause severe illness or death in vulnerable people. There are also misconceptions about the efficacy of vaccines; studies have consistently shown that approved vaccines significantly reduce the risk of severe illness from COVID-19.

Source: https://dinhtienhoang.edu.vn
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