Alaskapox

An elderly man from Alaska succumbs to Alaskapox, marking the first recorded fatality from this recently discovered viral disease.

About Alaskapox:

• Alaskapox is a double-stranded DNA virus with zoonotic characteristics, primarily spreading among Alaska’s state animals and occasionally infecting humans.
• It belongs to the family of orthopoxviruses.
• Orthopoxviruses, brick-shaped viruses, can infect both animals and humans.
• Known for causing skin lesions or pox; some members include smallpox, camelpox, cowpox, horsepox, and mpox (formerly known as monkeypox).

Discovery and Prevalence:

• First discovered in 2015 in a woman near Fairbanks, Alaska.
• Primarily found in small mammals like red-backed voles and shrews.
• Pets, including dogs and cats, may also carry the virus.
• Seven documented cases in Alaska within the last nine years.

Symptoms of Alaskapox:

• Development of one or more skin bumps or pustules.
• Joint or muscle pain.
• Swollen lymph nodes.
• Most cases result in mild illnesses resolving in a few weeks.
• Individuals with weakened immune systems at risk for more severe illness.

Transmission of Alaskapox:

• Believed to spread through contact with infected animals.
• No documented case of human-to-human transmission.
• Caution advised, and anyone with an Alaskapox lesion should cover it with a bandage.

Protective Measures for Humans and Pets:

• Alaskapox considered a rare illness with mostly mild symptoms.
• Emphasizes the importance of maintaining a safe distance from wildlife.
• Advocates handwashing after outdoor activities.
• Discourages keeping wildlife as pets.

Ref: Source