There are more and more cases of monkeypox in Germany! The Stiko has recommended vaccination for risk groups. But how dangerous is the virus really and how can you protect yourself? And can the spread still be stopped?
So far, more than 100 cases of monkeypox have been registered in Germany. The main symptoms are a rash, which can develop into blisters. Experts are now recommending that risk groups should be vaccinated. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the smallpox vaccination is 85 percent effective against infection with monkeypox. People with an impaired immune system or small children are therefore particularly at risk. No deaths have been reported outside of Africa.
More than 100 cases in Germany
Monkeypox is a virus that has been known for years. “The reservoir of these viruses are not the monkeys. Monkeys are so-called false hosts, i.e. intermediate carriers. A smallpox-like disease was only first found in monkeys, hence the name. This is much older than the statement that it is a different virus than that of human smallpox. The viruses most likely come from small rodents,” explains epidemiologist Klaus Stöhr, according to the Bild-Zeitung.
Experts do not expect a pandemic
Although infections with monkeypox in Germany have recently increased, a pandemic like the corona virus is unlikely, according to experts. Also because you can’t get infected with monkeypox quite as quickly as with Covid-19. Monkeypox can be transmitted particularly during sexual intercourse between men. Most cases so far have been very mild. Incidentally, the first patient who was infected with monkeypox in Germany has also recovered. Already read? Monkey pox: tough rules for quarantine!