Truth about Monkeypox

 

What is Monkeypox?

Monkeypox is a rare disease caused by infection with the monkeypox virus. Monkeypox virus is part of the same family of viruses as variola virus, the virus that causes smallpox. Monkeypox symptoms are similar to smallpox symptoms, but milder, and monkeypox is rarely fatal. Monkeypox is not related to chickenpox.

Monkeypox was discovered in 1958 when two outbreaks of a pox-like disease occurred in colonies of monkeys kept for research. Despite being named “monkeypox,” the source of the disease remains unknown. However, African rodents and non-human primates (like monkeys) might harbor the virus and infect people.

The first human case of monkeypox was recorded in 1970. Prior to the 2022 outbreak, monkeypox had been reported in people in several central and western African countries. Previously, almost all monkeypox cases in people outside of Africa were linked to international travel to countries where the disease commonly occurs or through imported animals. These cases occurred on multiple continents.

Monkeypox symptoms

People with monkeypox get a rash that may be located on or near the genitals (penis, testicles, labia, and vagina) or anus (butthole) and could be on other areas like the hands, feet, chest, face, or mouth.

• The rash will go through several stages, including scabs, before healing.
• The rash can initially look like pimples or blisters and may be painful or itchy.

Other symptoms of monkeypox can include:

• Fever
• Chills
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Exhaustion
• Muscle aches and backache
• Headache
• Respiratory symptoms (e.g. sore throat, nasal congestion, or cough)

You may experience all or only a few symptoms

• Sometimes, people have flu-like symptoms before the rash.
• Some people get a rash first, followed by other symptoms.
• Others only experience a rash.

How long do monkeypox symptoms last?

Monkeypox symptoms usually start within 3 weeks of exposure to the virus. If someone has flu-like symptoms, they will usually develop a rash 1-4 days later.

Monkeypox can be spread from the time symptoms start until the rash has healed, all scabs have fallen off, and a fresh layer of skin has formed. The illness typically lasts 2-4 weeks.

If You Have a New or Unexplained Rash or Other Symptoms...

• Avoid close contact, including sex or being intimate with anyone, until you have been checked out by a healthcare provider.
• If you don’t have a provider or health insurance, visit a public health clinic near you.
• When you see a healthcare provider, wear a mask, and remind them that this virus is circulating in the area.

How is monkeypox diagnosed?

Because monkeypox is rare, a healthcare provider may first suspect other rash illnesses, such as measles or chickenpox. But swollen lymph nodes usually distinguish monkeypox from other poxes.

To diagnose monkeypox, your healthcare provider takes a tissue sample from an open sore (lesion). Then, they send it to a lab for polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing (genetic fingerprinting). You may also need to give a blood sample to check for the monkeypox virus or antibodies your immune system makes in defense of it.

When should I see my healthcare provider?

Call your healthcare provider if you:

• Feel sick with fever, aches or swollen lymph nodes.
• Have a new rash or sores.
• Have been in close contact with a person who is infected.

When should I go to the ER?

Seek medical care if you develop the following symptoms:

• Trouble breathing.
• New or worsening chest pain.
• Stiff neck.
• Are confused or can’t think clearly.
• Difficulty speaking or moving.
• Loss of consciousness.
• Seizures.

How do I take care of myself?

If have monkeypox symptoms, there are over-the-counter medications that can help you feel better, including:

• Pain relievers and fever reducers. Medicines like ibuprofen (Advil®, Motrin®) and acetaminophen (Tylenol®) can help you feel better.
• Oatmeal baths. Soaking in a warm bath with colloidal oatmeal can relieve the dry, itchy feeling that comes with skin rashes.
• Isolate yourself if you’re infected. Avoid contact with others until all of your lesions have scabbed.
• Cover single or local lesions. Use gauze or bandages to limit the spread to others and the environment.
• Take good care. It’s important to stay home and rest when you’re sick, wear a mask around others and drink plenty of fluids.