Monkeypox is a rare disease that is similar to smallpox. The monkeypox virus is a viral disease and can cause a widespread rash and severe fever in humans.
The monkeypox virus is found primarily in central and west Africa, where it is thought to be spread by contact with infected animals, such as monkeys, rats, and squirrels. The monkeypox virus is not as contagious or as severe as smallpox, but it can be deadly in some cases.
Monkeypox quick facts
There is no specific treatment for this rare disease, but hospitalization and supportive care can help to manage the symptoms. There is also a vaccine available that can help to prevent monkeypox.
The World Health Organization (WHO) is an international organization that is dedicated to promoting and protecting global health. The WHO is responsible for monitoring and responding to outbreaks of monkeypox around the world.
The World Health Organization recommends that people who are traveling to areas where monkeypox is found should be vaccinated against monkeypox.
The WHO also advises that people in close contact with someone who has monkeypox should be vaccinated as well.
How is monkeypox spread?
Monkeypox virus is spread through direct contact with the body fluids of an infected person or direct contact with an infected animal. Monkeypox can enter through broken skin especially if you come in contact with an infected person or infected animals.
The monkeypox virus can also be spread from animals to humans. This is called animal to human transmission.
In animal to human transmission, the virus is spread through contact with the body fluids of an infected animal, such as saliva, blood, or urine.
The monkeypox virus can also be contacted if you have broken skin that comes into contact with an infected animal.
Monkeypox can also be spread through contact with infected objects, such as bedding or clothing.
The monkeypox virus can also be spread through the air, particularly when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Monkeypox is most commonly spread through close contact with an infected individual, such as a family member or friend.
If you do need to be in close contact with someone who has monkeypox, it is essential that you take precautions to avoid bein infected.
It is recommended that you wear personal protective equipment such as gloves, gown, and mask.
You also need to wash your hands regularly and thoroughly. It is also critical to avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
Another way to protect yourself from monkeypox is by getting vaccinated. The WHO advises that people in close contact with someone who has monkeypox should be vaccinated as well.
Who can get monkeypox?
Anyone can get monkeypox, but it is most commonly seen in people who have contact with infected animals or people. It can also be spread from animals to humans.
The monkeypox virus is found primarily in central and west Africa, where it is thought to be spread by contact with infected animals, such as monkeys, rats, and squirrels.
Monkeypox is not as contagious or as severe as smallpox, but it can be deadly in some cases.
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), “It is likely that there are going to be additional cases reported in the United States,” said Dr. Jennifer McQuiston, a veterinarian and deputy director of the CDC’s Division of High Consequence Pathogens and Pathology.
Where is monkeypox now?
There are more than 160 confirmed monkeypox cases in countries where the virus normally doesn’t happen.
According to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), as of May 24, 2022, there are 14 new confirmed monkeypox cases in England bringing their nationwide total to 70.
In the United States, as of the same date, there is 1 confirmed case of monkeypox but 6 other cases that are probably monkeypox.
There are confirmed monkeypox cases in Spain, Portugal, Canada, Italy, Belgium, Germany, Australia, Netherlands, Austria, Denmark, France, Israel, Sweeden, and Switzerland.
Who is more susceptible to monkeypox?
Anyone can get monkeypox. But there are people who are more susceptible to monkeypox.
People who are more likely to get monkeypox include those who have not been vaccinated against monkeypox, young children, and those with weakened immune systems.
However, the LGBTQ community, especially gay and bisexual men, seems to be making up a “notable fraction of cases” in the latest global outbreak, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said Monday.
How is monkeypox diagnosed?
Monkeypox can be difficult to diagnose because it shares many symptoms with other diseases, such as smallpox, chickenpox, and measles.
A doctor will usually ask about your travel history and your contact with animals or people who have monkeypox. They will also look for the characteristic monkeypox rash.
A sample of fluid from a blister or scab can be sent to a laboratory for testing to confirm the diagnosis.
What are the symptoms of monkeypox?
The monkeypox virus usually causes a milder disease in humans than smallpox. It can be broken down into 2 phases.
The first phase lasts about 5 days. You may have a fever, headache, swollen lymph nodes, and fatigue during that time.
Other symptoms may include muscle aches, backaches, chills, and loss of appetite. These symptoms can last up to 14 days.
A few days after the fever begins, a rash develops. In 95
The rash starts on the face and spreads to other parts of the body. The rash usually lasts for 2-4 weeks.
A rash may also develop, starting as small red bumps and progressing to large blisters.
The monkeypox rash is different from the smallpox rash in a few ways. First, monkeypox lesions tend to be flatter and less raised than smallpox lesions.
Second, monkeypox lesions are often found on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet, while smallpox lesions are not.
The monkeypox rash typically covers the entire body. Monkeypox is a serious disease, and it can be fatal in some cases.
In some cases, monkeypox can cause serious complications, such as pneumonia and encephalitis (inflammation of the brain).
How is monkeypox treated?
There is no specific treatment for the monkeypox virus. You just have to treat the symptoms.
Treatment may include pain relief, fever control, and keeping yourself hydrated.
There is also a vaccine available that can help to prevent monkeypox. In studies, it was about 85% effective in preventing monkeypox.
How can monkeypox be prevented?
The monkeypox vaccine is the best way to prevent monkeypox. The monkeypox vaccine is most effective when given before exposure to the virus.
The vaccine is not currently available in the United States, but it is available in some other countries.
Other ways to prevent monkeypox include avoiding contact with wild animals and practicing good hygiene, such as washing your hands frequently and avoiding close contact with sick people.
You should also stay as healthy as possible by eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep.
What do I do if I get monkeypox?
If you think you have monkeypox, call your doctor right away. You will need to be treated in a hospital.
Tell your doctor about your symptoms and if you have been in contact with any wild animals or sick people.
Your doctor will likely want to do a physical exam and order laboratory tests to confirm the diagnosis. You will need to be isolated from other people to prevent the spread of monkeypox.
There is no specific treatment for monkeypox, so you will just have to treat the symptoms.
In some cases, monkeypox can cause serious complications, such as pneumonia and encephalitis (inflammation of the brain). These complications can be fatal.
Wrap up
Monkeypox is a rare but serious viral infection that can cause fever, headache, muscle aches, and exhaustion. It is transmitted to people from contact with infected animals, most often monkeys, squirrels, and rodents.
The best way to protect yourself from monkeypox is to avoid contact with wild animals, particularly in areas where the virus has been reported.
If you think you may have been exposed to monkeypox or develop symptoms after exposure, seek medical care right away. There is no specific treatment for monkeypox and there are no vaccines available yet.
However, early diagnosis and supportive care can improve the chances of recovery. People who get sick with monkeypox should be isolated from other people until they are no longer contagious.
As always, practice good hygiene, such as washing your hands frequently, to help prevent the spread of monkeypox and other illnesses.