A new type of virus is attracting attention in the world. This week the first death from smallpox in Alaska was announced, a type of orthopoxvirus that, according to authorities, was probably caused by the scratch of a stray cat. Yes ok Until now this infection has been monitored and controlled, warnings are being given about its possible spread.
According to what the Alaska health authorities have announced. This type of smallpox is similar to other orthopox viruses, that is, those that cause the so-called monkey or common smallpox. It is a zoonotic virus that is transmitted between people and animals. In this case it was transmitted by small mammals in Alaska, mainly voles, a type of rodent.
According to current records, Alaska smallpox does not usually cause serious problems. However, Yes, it is a danger for people who have immunosuppressed systems. Just like the elderly man who contracted the virus in September 2023 and who, despite having received treatment, died in January 2024.
In fact, an article by Fox News Digital points out that The first documented case of Alaska smallpox occurred in Fairbanks County, Alaska. in 2015. Since then there have only been six confirmed cases, including the man who died from the infection this year.
So far all cases have affected people living in forested areas. and they had been in contact with pets that had in turn lived with small mammals. There have been no reported cases of human-to-human transmission of the virus.. That is why specialists consider it unlikely that this type of smallpox could spread to other states within the United States.
Thus, experts consider that Alaskan smallpox should not cause concern, since it is far from a spread like common smallpox. “It's in the same family, but that doesn't mean it deserves the same level of concern as smallpox for the general public. I think it's something we should all be aware of, but it's not something that represents a major public health disaster.” “said Dr. Aaron Glatt, chairman of the department of medicine and chief of infectious diseases at Mt. Sinai South Nassau Hospital in New York, to Fox.
What are the symptoms of Alaskan smallpox?
As already mentioned, according to reports from the authorities, Alaskan smallpox usually only causes mild symptoms. However, it is worth monitoring to avoid a major problem, especially in people who are not in a healthy state.
Those who have had this type of smallpox usually experience fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, pain in the joints or muscles and in the area where they received the infection. As an example, the man who died in January had pain in his arm and shoulder, which was where he was scratched by the sick cat.
Even so, people who suspect they may be infected should keep the affected area covered with a bandage and avoid sharing clothes and sleeping next to others. In most cases the symptoms are mild and resolve on their own within a few weeks.
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