Understanding Monkeypox: A Simple Guide

Monkeypox is a rare but potentially serious disease that has recently gained attention due to outbreaks in various regions. In this blog, we will cover the basics of monkeypox, its symptoms, how it spreads, ways to prevent it, and possible treatments.

What is monkeypox?

A viral disease that has the ability to spread from animals to humans. It is caused by the monkeypox virus, which is related to the virus that causes smallpox. The disease was first discovered in 1958 in monkeys used for research, hence its name.

Symptoms of Monkeypox

The symptoms of monkeypox and smallpox are somewhat similar, but the symptoms seen in monkeypox are usually as mild or milder than those of smallpox. Symptoms usually appear within 5 to 21 days of contact and can last for 2 to 4 weeks. Common symptoms include:

1. 1. Fever: Sudden fever, often accompanied by chills.
   2. Headache: Severe headache.
   3. Muscle pain: Muscle pain is common.
   4. Back pain: Many people experience persistent back pain.
   5. Swollen lymph nodes: Swollen lymph nodes are an important sign that helps differentiate monkeypox from smallpox.
   6. Rash: The rash usually begins on the face and then spreads to other parts of the body, including the palms and soles of the feet. The rash goes through different stages, starting as flat spots, then bumps, then fluid-filled blisters and finally scabs.

For more details about the development of lesions, click here

How is monkeypox spread?

Monkeypox can also spread from animals to humans through direct contact with the blood, body fluids, or skin lesions of infected animals or through other means. Below are some points that make it clear:

1. 1. Respiratory droplets: Prolonged face-to-face contact can spread the virus through large respiratory droplets.

1. 1. Direct contact: Touching infected bodily fluids, wounds, or contaminated objects such as bedding or clothing.

1. 1. Animal bites or scratches: Handling or eating undercooked meat from infected animals.

How to Prevent Monkeypox

Preventing monkeypox involves several steps:

1. 1. Vaccination: The smallpox vaccine provides about 85% protection against monkeypox.

1. 1. Avoid contact: Limit contact with animals that may carry the virus, especially rodents and primates in affected areas.

1. 1. Hygiene: Wash your hands often with soap and water or use hand sanitizer, especially after handling animals or potentially contaminated items.

1. 1. Safe handling of foods: Cook all animal products thoroughly before eating.

1. 1. Isolation/Quarantine: During an outbreak, infected individuals should be isolated to prevent the spread of the virus.

What to do during an outbreak

1. 1. Public awareness: Educate people about the symptoms, how it spreads, and ways to prevent it.

1. 1. Surveillance and contact tracing: Track and monitor people who have come into contact with infected individuals to help control the spread.

1. 1. Supportive care: Provide medical care to manage symptoms such as dehydration, fever, and pain.

Treatment for monkeypox

Currently, there is no specific treatment for monkeypox, but supportive care can help:

1. 1. Antiviral drugs: Cidofovir, an antiviral drug, can help treat monkeypox, but it is not widely used.

1. 1. Symptomatic treatment: Manage symptoms such as fever and pain, and treat any secondary bacterial infections with appropriate medications.

1. 1. Vaccination after infection: Getting the smallpox vaccine within four days of exposure can help prevent or reduce the severity of monkeypox.

Conclusion

Monkeypox is a serious public health concern, especially in areas where the virus is common or during an outbreak. By understanding the symptoms, how it spreads, and how to prevent it, we can reduce the risk of infection and effectively manage an outbreak when it occurs. Staying informed and practicing good hygiene is key to protecting yourself and your community from this emerging threat.