Monkeypox has been diagnosed in several humans in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. What might be recommended to prevent further risk of infection?
a. Catch the monkeys for inoculation with monkeypox vaccine.
b. Remove infected tissues from humans with chemicals, by surgery, or by freezing.
c. Reinstate smallpox vaccinations for the country's population.
d. The diagnosis must have been incorrect because humans are unaffected by
monkeypox.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the nature of monkeypox: Monkeypox is a viral zoonotic disease that occurs primarily in tropical rainforest areas of Central and West Africa and is occasionally exported to other regions. It is similar to smallpox but generally less severe.
2. Consider the transmission routes: Monkeypox can be transmitted to humans through contact with an infected animal, human, or materials contaminated with the virus. Human-to-human transmission is limited but can occur through respiratory droplets or contact with body fluids.
3. Evaluate the options: Option a suggests catching monkeys for vaccination, which is impractical and not a standard public health measure. Option b involves removing infected tissues, which is not a preventive measure but rather a treatment approach. Option d incorrectly states that humans are unaffected by monkeypox, which is false.
4. Focus on option c: Reinstate smallpox vaccinations. Smallpox vaccination has been shown to provide cross-protection against monkeypox. This is because the viruses are closely related, and the smallpox vaccine can help boost immunity against monkeypox.
5. Conclude with the most viable preventive measure: Given the options, reinstating smallpox vaccinations (option c) is the most practical and effective measure to prevent further risk of monkeypox infection in humans.

Key Concepts

Monkeypox Transmission

Monkeypox is a viral zoonotic disease primarily transmitted from animals to humans, with the potential for human-to-human transmission. Understanding the modes of transmission is crucial for implementing effective prevention strategies, such as avoiding contact with infected animals and practicing good hygiene.

Vaccination Strategies

Vaccination is a key public health tool for preventing infectious diseases. The smallpox vaccine has been shown to provide cross-protection against monkeypox, making it relevant in outbreak situations. Knowledge of vaccination history and strategies is essential for determining appropriate public health responses.

Infection Control Measures

Infection control measures are practices aimed at preventing the spread of infectious diseases. This includes isolating infected individuals, using personal protective equipment, and implementing sanitation protocols. Understanding these measures is vital for managing outbreaks and protecting public health.