Commentary - (2023) Volume 13, Issue 1
Received: 01-Mar-2023, Manuscript No. EJEBAU-23-16625; Editor assigned: 03-Mar-2023, Pre QC No. EJEBAU-23-16625 (PQ); Reviewed: 17-Mar-2023, QC No. EJEBAU-23-16625; Revised: 22-Mar-2023, Manuscript No. EJEBAU-23-16625 (R); Published: 29-Mar-2023, DOI: 10.36648/2248-9215.13.1.06
Orthopoxviruses are a group of highly contagious and potentially fatal viruses that can cause severe diseases in humans, including smallpox and Monkeypox. While smallpox has been eradicated, cases of Monkeypox continue to emerge in various parts of the world. Prevention plays a crucial role in controlling the spread of Orthopoxviruses and mitigating the risks associated with these infections. This article explores key prevention strategies, including vaccination, surveillance, public health measures, and personal protective practices, to combat Orthopoxviruses and safeguard public health. Orthopoxviruses are large, complex DNA viruses that belong to the family Poxviridae. They are characterized by their brick-shaped structure and double-stranded DNA genome. Smallpox, caused by the variola virus, was the most well-known and deadly member of the orthopoxvirus family. Through a global vaccination campaign, smallpox was eradicated in 1980. However, other Orthopoxviruses, such as Monkeypox, continue to pose a threat. Vaccination is the most effective preventive measure against Orthopoxviruses. The smallpox vaccine, which contains live vaccinia virus, provided strong immunity against variola virus. Although routine smallpox vaccination is no longer necessary due to eradication, stockpiles of vaccine are maintained for emergency use. In regions where Monkeypox is endemic, the smallpox vaccine can also confer cross-protection against Monkeypox. Surveillance systems are critical for early detection and control of orthopoxvirus infections. Timely identification and reporting of suspected cases allow for swift public health interventions. Laboratory testing plays a key role in diagnosing orthopoxvirus infections, enabling appropriate management and containment measures. PCR-based methods and immunohistochemistry are commonly employed for diagnosis. Public health measures are vital in preventing the spread of Orthopoxviruses. Isolation of infected individuals, contact tracing, and quarantine measures can help contain outbreaks. In high-risk areas, enhanced biosecurity measures should be implemented to prevent accidental laboratory exposures and illicit use of Orthopoxviruses as bioweapons. Other Orthopoxviruses, such as cowpox and vaccinia, can cause localized skin lesions and mild systemic symptoms. However, in immunocompromised individuals, these infections can result in severe complications. Understanding the stages of orthopoxvirus infections is crucial for comprehending the progression and impact of these viral diseases. From viral entry and replication to assembly, release, and the subsequent host immune response, each stage contributes to the overall disease course. By studying these stages, researchers can develop targeted strategies for prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of orthopoxvirus infections. Ongoing surveillance and research efforts are essential to monitor the evolution and emergence of new orthopoxvirus strains and to ensure effective control measures are in place to minimize their impact on human and animal health. Individuals can protect themselves and others from orthopoxvirus infections through personal protective practices. This includes regular hand hygiene, especially after contact with potentially contaminated surfaces or animals. People should avoid direct contact with infected animals, particularly rodents and primates, which can serve as reservoirs for Orthopoxviruses. Efficient risk communication and public education campaigns are essential in preventing orthopoxvirus infections. Clear and accurate information regarding the transmission, symptoms, and preventive measures should be disseminated to the public, healthcare workers, and veterinary professionals. Educational initiatives can empower individuals to take proactive measures and promote responsible behaviour. Prevention remains the cornerstone in the fight against Orthopoxviruses. Vaccination, enhanced surveillance, public health measures, personal protective practices, and effective risk communication are all vital components of a comprehensive prevention strategy. Ongoing research and collaboration between global health organizations and governments are essential to refine prevention efforts, strengthen diagnostic capabilities, and develop novel therapeutics. By prioritizing prevention and adopting a multi-faceted approach, we can effectively control orthopoxvirus infections, safeguard public health, and mitigate the potential for future outbreaks.
None.
The author’s declared that they have no conflict of interest.
Citation: Empig C (2023) Neutralizing Antibodies Associated with Exposure Factors to Orthopoxvirus in Laboratory Workers. Eur Exp Bio. 13:06.
Copyright: © 2023 Empig C. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited.
