There are more and more cases of monkeypox in Germany! Stiko recommended vaccination for high-risk groups. But how dangerous is the virus really and how can you protect yourself? And does the spread still stop?
To date, more than 100 cases of monkeypox have been recorded in Germany. The main symptom is a rash that can develop into blisters. Experts are now recommending that high-risk groups be vaccinated. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), smallpox vaccination is 85 percent effective against infection with monkeypox virus. So people with weakened immune systems or young children are especially at risk. No deaths have been reported outside Africa.
More than 100 cases in Germany
Monkeypox is a virus that has been known for years. The reservoir of these viruses is not monkeys. Monkeys are called pseudo-hosts, that is, intermediate vectors. Smallpox-like disease was first found only in monkeys, hence the name. This is much older than saying that it is a different virus than the human smallpox virus. Viruses are more likely to come from small rodents,” explains epidemiologist Klaus Storr, according to Build-Zetung.
Experts don’t expect a pandemic
Although monkeypox infections have increased in Germany recently, a pandemic like the coronavirus is unlikely, according to experts. Also because you can’t catch monkeypox as quickly as Covid-19. Monkeypox can be transmitted especially during sexual intercourse between men. Most cases so far have been very mild. Incidentally, the first monkeypox patient in Germany has also recovered. Already read? Monkey pox: Strict quarantine rules!
