Pandemics or pandemoniums?
In August 2024, the Brazilian Ministry of Health declared the monkeypox outbreak as an international public health emergency. Monkeypox, previously known for its endemic presence in Central and West Africa, began spreading globally, prompting the World Health Organization (WHO) to classify it as an emergency in July 2022. As of 2024, Brazil has reported over 7,200 cases of Oropouche fever, a disease that had previously been contained to the Amazon region but has now reached 21 states, with two fatalities confirmed in Bahia. These were the first deaths from Oropouche fever recorded globally. Leticia, a scientist with expertise in immunology and biophysics, discusses the infectious diseases causing concern, highlighting monkeypox and Oropouche fever. Although Brazil has confirmed more than 7,000 monkeypox cases in 2024, it has seen no deaths from this disease, and health authorities indicate that it is well-controlled compared to a surge of cases in 2022. Monkeypox is caused by a virus related to smallpox, primarily transmitted through direct contact with lesions, contaminated materials, and respiratory droplets during prolonged interactions. Symptoms include severe headache, muscle aches, fever, and skin rashes, often starting on the face and spreading over the body. While most monkeypox cases are self-limiting, serious complications can arise, especially in immunocompromised individuals and pregnant women. The Brazilian health authorities have not recommended mass vaccination against monkeypox but have secured 25,000 doses of a vaccine for at-risk groups. Oropouche fever, caused by an arbovirus, has symptoms similar to dengue and can spread via insect bites. As the incidence of Oropouche fever rises, the potential links to climate change and environmental degradation are noted, emphasizing the need for attention and prevention measures against both diseases.