Also known as AKPV, the virus is transmitted from small mammals and is related to smallpox, cowpox and mpox (formerly monkey pox).
For nine years, Alaska health officials have been aware of an unusual virus causing rare, relatively mild illnesses in the Fairbanks area. But a recent case in another part of the state — this one resulting in a man’s death — has brought new attention to the so-called Alaskapox virus.
To subscribe please click tau.id/2iy6f and access our live channel.
Alaskapox recorded its first known fatality after claiming the life of an elderly man in the US state of Alaska, that was reported on Wednesday. First discovered in the US state after which it is named, six cases of the virus have been reported so far since 2015.
ALSO READ: BHIM UPI services Begins in 7 Nations
What is Alaskapox?
Alaskapox belongs to a family of brick-shaped viruses that can infect animals and humans. These bugs, known as orthopoxviruses, tend to cause lesions, or pox, on the skin. Each has its own characteristics, and some are considered more dangerous than others.
Smallpox is perhaps the most famous of the lot, but other family members include camelpox, cowpox, horsepox and mpox formerly known as monkeypox.
History of Alaskapox
Alaskapox was discovered in 2015 in a woman who lived near Fairbanks, Alaska. It mainly has been found in small mammals, including red-backed voles and shrews. But pets, such as dogs and cats, may also carry the virus, health officials say.
Symptoms of Alaskapox
People with Alaskapox have developed one or more bumps or pustules on the skin, as well as joint or muscle pain and swollen lymph nodes. Nearly all patients had mild illnesses that resolved on their own after a few weeks. But people with weakened immune system can be in danger for more severe illness.
Things We Know So far
The deceased elderly man had been suffering from the disease since November last year. He died in late January. Though, they noted that the man had also been battling cancer and had a compromised immune system.
All recorded cases have been reported from the Fairbanks area, located about 483 kilometres from the Kenai Peninsula in Alaska. The officials added that no human-to-human transmission has occurred so far.
Government Measures on Alaskapox
According to health officials, the tests carried out on several species of small mammals in the Fairbanks area, has shown evidence of the virus. At least one domestic pet was also found to have tested positive for the infection, they said.
The deceased man was in frequent contact with a stray cat at his home. When tested, the feline turned negative for the virus but hunted small mammals. The Health officials believe the virus may have been passed on via the paws of the cat when it scratched the man.
Prevention Against Alaskapox
Alaskapox is a rare illness that in most cases causes a relatively mild symptoms, health officials believe. The best ways to keep pets and family members safe is to keep a safe distance and wash your hands after being outdoors. Also, not try to keep wildlife as pets.
The health advisory urged the Alaskan population to practise regular washing of hands and clothes. The people with skin lesions, which could have been possibly caused due to the virus, have been asked to cover the affected area with a bandage. The advisory also urged federal health precautions around wildlife in Alaska.
