Context:
∙ Recently, Alaskapox, a rare virus causing mild illnesses, has been reported from Alaska.
About the Alaskapox:
∙ Alaskapox Virus (AKPV) is an orthopoxvirus that was first identified in 2015.
∙ 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
∙ All recorded cases have been reported from the Fairbanks North Star Borough area, located a few hundreds kilometres from the Kenai Peninsula in Alaska.
Transmission:
∙ It is believed that the virus is transmitted from animals to humans.
∙ It is transmitted from small mammals and is related to smallpox and cowpox.
∙ However, no human-to-human transmission has occurred so far.
Symptoms:
∙ The symptoms of Alaskapox include rash, swollen lymph nodes, and joint or muscle pain.
Prevention
∙ The best way to keep pets and family members safe is to keep a safe distance and wash hands after being outdoors.
∙ Also, do not try to keep wildlife as pets.
