Pavel Volchkov, head of the MIPT genome engineering laboratory, virologist, Ph.D. This has been reported URA.RU.
Volchkov emphasizes practical precautions that people can use in daily life to reduce risk during outbreaks. He explains that quarantine measures exist for a reason and that ordinary social interactions should adapt during health crises. Touch with strangers should be avoided, and even interactions with acquaintances should be approached with caution if there is any doubt about their health status. The guidance is clear: practice safe behaviors, especially in intimate settings. In addition to protective actions, it remains essential to confirm a partner’s health status, particularly when there is a potential exposure to infections that can be transmitted through blood or body fluids. In such cases, seeking testing is a prudent step for anyone who may have been exposed and wants to ensure they are not spreading an infection. These recommendations reflect a cautious approach that prioritizes both personal safety and the well-being of others, and they align with standard public health messaging aimed at preventing transmission during uncertain periods.
Volchkov notes that individuals can quickly recognize signs of monkeypox due to a relatively brief delay between exposure and the appearance of symptoms. He stresses that timely awareness makes a big difference in containment efforts, as early identification can lead to prompt testing, isolation when necessary, and reduced risk of onward transmission. People should be attentive to unusual rashes, fever, swollen lymph nodes, and general malaise, and should seek medical advice promptly if such symptoms develop. Early action not only protects the person affected but also helps health systems respond more efficiently and protect the wider community from potential spread.
Former World Health Organization Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has repeatedly highlighted the global situation, noting that more than 550 cases of monkeypox infection in 30 countries had been reported at a given time. The statement underscores how a disease once considered regional can emerge as a global public health concern, prompting enhanced surveillance, information sharing, and coordinated responses across nations. Health authorities around the world monitor case counts, transmission patterns, and the effectiveness of control measures, adjusting guidance as new data becomes available and attempting to balance public safety with normal activities.
According to the same public health updates, approximately 70 people have died from this illness since the start of the year in five African countries. This mortality figure highlights the serious potential consequences of monkeypox, particularly in settings where access to timely care, diagnostic resources, and supportive treatment may be limited. The data emphasize the need for ongoing vaccination considerations, improved clinical management, and stronger health infrastructure to reduce fatal outcomes. Experts continue to advocate for robust preparedness, community engagement, and transparent communication to combat the disease while safeguarding vulnerable populations and preventing stigma that can hinder reporting and care seeking.