It seems as though as COVID-19 is starting to subside in regards to the number of cases, hospitalizations and deaths, another virus outbreak finding its way into our somewhat normal lives again: Monkeypox.
What is MonkeyPox?
According to the CDC, monkeypox is a rare disease caused by infection of the monkeypox virus which is part of the variola virus family, which is actually what causes smallpox. Although monkeypox does have similarities to smallpox, monkeypox is rarely fatal. The first human case was recorded in 1970 and prior to the now 2022 outbreak it had only been found in several African countries.
What are the signs and symptoms to look out for?
The signs and symptoms to look out for in regards to monkeypox are:
- Fever
- Headache
- Muscle and back ache
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Chills
- Exhaustion
- A rash that may be located on or near the genitals, anus or other areas such as hands, feet, chest, face or mouth. The rash may also look like pimples or blisters and may be painful or itchy.
Rash may present in different people. Some may experience a rash first followed by other symptoms, some may get a rash after symptoms, or some may just experience a rash without other symptoms occurring. Monkeypox can start about three weeks after exposure and can generally last from 2 to 4 weeks.
How is Monkeypox spread?
Monkeypox can spread to anyone through:
- Close, personal or skin-to-skin contact which can include direct contact with scabs, rash or bodily fluids; touching objects and fabrics used with someone that has the virus; and contact with any respiratory secretions.
- Direct contact with anyone intimately which includes oral, anal and vaginal sex or through touching genitals; hugging, massaging or kissing; and prolonged face to face contact.
- Pregnant women spreading the virus to their fetus through the placenta.
What are ways to prevent monkeypox?
Currently, there are no treatments for monkeypox virus infections. The best way is to prevent the virus from infecting you and to stop the spread.
- Avoid close, skin-to-skin contact with people who have a rash that may look like monkeypox.
- Avoid contact with objects and materials that a person with monkeypox has used or touched.
- Wash your hands with soap and water and use alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
What are some myths associated with monkeypox?
The following myths and stigmas that have been associated with monkeypox and have been debunked are not true.
- Monkeypox is a new virus.
- Monkeypox is a sexually transmitted infection.
- Monkeypox only affects gay and bisexual men.
- Monkeypox is the next COVID-19 virus.
- Monkeypox only affects people in African countries.
It is important to continuously stay up-to-date with news regarding monkeypox because similar to the beginnings of the COVID-19 outbreak, updates and guidelines are changing daily. Protect yourself and others from spreading monkeypox by being aware of the signs and symptoms and preventing contact from anyone who has it or you if you are infected.
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