KATHMANDU: The Ministry of Health and Population reports that a 44-year-old man who just returned to Nepal from Saudi Arabia has been diagnosed with monkeypox. Dr. Prakash Budhathoki, the ministry's spokeswoman, verified the case and said more information on the history of the illness will be released shortly.

In the past month, Nepal has seen two cases of monkeypox. A 36-year-old Saudi Arabian returnee from Tanahun tested positive for the virus on December 20. These incidents point to a worrying pattern among people coming home from overseas.

The first monkeypox infection in Nepal was recorded in a foreign individual on September 18, 2023. This implies that instances have been intermittently reported since the initial report, even if the virus is still uncommon in the country.

Monkeypox, which is caught by close contact with an infected person or animal, is caused by a virus that is a member of the smallpox family. Additionally, dirty beds and clothing can transmit HPV, thus prevention requires maintaining proper hygiene.

Direct contact with an infected person's bodily fluids or sores is the main way that the virus is spread. Transmission can also occur by respiratory droplets from extended close contact and encounters with infected animals, including rats or monkeys.

Though not as severe as smallpox, monkeypox symptoms include fever, swollen lymph nodes, and a distinctive rash. Although the disease often advances more slowly, it can nevertheless have a very negative impact on a person's health, especially in vulnerable populations.

The Ministry of Health is keeping a careful eye on the situation and has issued a warning to anyone returning from impacted areas. Dr. Budhathoki underlined the significance of remaining vigilant in order to stop the disease from spreading further throughout the nation.

Monkeypox must be prevented by taking precautions including avoiding close contact with infected people, keeping oneself clean, and being aware of any possible signs. Reducing the danger requires early identification and prompt isolation.

The public is being kept updated by authorities, who are also trying to raise awareness of monkeypox and how to prevent it. These initiatives seek to protect public health and reduce further spread.