Daily Current Affairs : 14-February-2024
Recently, a tragic incident occurred when a man with a weakened immune system died after being scratched by a stray cat infected with Alaskapox. This case highlights the importance of understanding this rare virus and how to prevent infection.
What is Alaskapox?
Alaskapox is a virus that belongs to the orthopoxvirus family. It is relatively rare and primarily affects small mammals. Here are some key facts about the virus:
- Discovery: Alaskapox was first identified in Alaska in 2015.
- Hosts: It mainly infects small mammals, such as red-backed voles and shrews.
- Symptoms in Humans: Although rare, when it does affect humans, it can cause mild illnesses characterized by:
- Skin lesions
- Joint or muscle pain
- Swollen lymph nodes
Transmission of Alaskapox
One of the crucial aspects of Alaskapox is how it spreads. The virus is transmitted primarily through contact with infected animals. Here are some important points about its transmission:
- Animal Contact: Most cases occur when people come into contact with infected wildlife.
- No Human-to-Human Transmission: There have been no documented cases of the virus spreading from one person to another, making it less concerning in terms of outbreaks among humans.
Prevention Measures
To reduce the risk of contracting Alaskapox, health officials recommend several preventive measures:
- Keep Your Distance: Maintain a safe distance from wildlife, especially small mammals that may carry the virus.
- Wash Hands: Always wash your hands after outdoor activities, particularly if you’ve been near animals.
- Avoid Wild Pets: Do not keep wildlife as pets, as this increases the risk of exposure to the virus.
Important Points:
Alaskapox Overview:
- A rare virus in the orthopoxvirus family.
- First discovered in Alaska in 2015.
- Primarily affects small mammals like red-backed voles and shrews.
Symptoms in Humans:
- Mild illnesses including:
- Skin lesions
- Joint or muscle pain
- Swollen lymph nodes
Transmission:
- Spread mainly through contact with infected animals.
- No documented cases of human-to-human transmission.
Prevention Measures:
- Maintain a safe distance from wildlife.
- Wash hands after outdoor activities.
- Avoid keeping wildlife as pets.
Importance of Awareness:
- Recent case highlights risks, especially for those with weakened immune systems.
- Staying informed and taking precautions can help protect health.
Why In News
Recently, a man with a suppressed immune system tragically died from Alaskapox after being scratched by a stray cat, underscoring the potential dangers posed by wildlife to vulnerable individuals.
MCQs about Alaskapox
-
What is Alaskapox primarily associated with?
A. Human-to-human transmission
B. Small mammals
C. Domestic pets
D. Insects
-
Which of the following symptoms is NOT typically associated with Alaskapox in humans?
A. Skin lesions
B. Joint or muscle pain
C. High fever
D. Swollen lymph nodes
-
How is Alaskapox primarily transmitted to humans?
A. Through contaminated water
B. Through contact with infected animals
C. By eating undercooked meat
D. Through insect bites
-
What preventive measure is recommended to avoid Alaskapox infection?
A. Vaccination against all viruses
B. Keeping wildlife as pets
C. Washing hands after outdoor activities
D. Avoiding outdoor activities entirely
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