Do you remember what the world was like before the smallpox vaccine? This one miniscule creature was responsible for the deaths of around 500 million people in the last 100 years, wiping out entire societies as it spread around the world. Now, its cousin—Mpox—is doing the rounds. However, unlike a century ago, viral outbreaks are no longer geographically separate for long lengths of time. It will take Mpox just as long to get from Africa to India as you and I (unless, of course, it forgets its transit visa). Unsurprisingly, within a few months of the more infectious Mpox strain, Clade 1, breaking out in Congo, the virus has reached here.

In this episode, infectious disease expert Dr Tanu Singhal from Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai breaks down the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment for Mpox into a comprehensive, easy-to-follow guide. She also shares fascinating information about the creation of the smallpox vaccine and why some nations have millions of doses stockpiled for future use.

This episode is super helpful if you are wondering whether it is time to stock up on rice and sanitisers again (or worse, learn to smile through masks again!). It is also a particularly insightful guide for anyone who simply wishes to know more about viruses and their sneaky ways of keeping pace with modern medicine.

Produced by Anna Priyadarshini

Sound mix by Nitin Rawat