Is it the next pandemic waiting to happen? Here are all your questions about Monkeypox answered.
The trending monkeypox is a viral infection so rare globally that most clinicians can go their entire careers without ever seeing a case.
A recent uptick in seemingly unconnected cases in the west, however, has caught the attention of health officials.
Although investigations are ongoing, the viral infection has already raised warning signs about potential for community spread.
Credible health institutions like the World Health Organization (WHO) have since prepared answers to the public’s concerns. Here’s what you need to know about monkeypox while qualified medical experts continue to study its implications.
What is monkeypox exactly?
It is a viral zoonotic disease caused by the monkeypox virus. This simply means it can spread from animals to humans, as well as between people.
Where is monkeypox usually found?
Monkeypox is commonly located in Central and West Africa. Here, animals that might carry the virus typically live in tropical rainforests. Occasionally, healthcare workers identify people with monkeypox in other countries outside of the said regions, following travel from areas where it is endemic.
What are the symptoms of monkeypox?
Symptoms typically include a fever, intense headache, muscle aches, back pain, low energy, swollen lymph nodes, and a skin rash or lesions.
What does monkeypox look like?
The resulting lesions can be flat or slightly raised and contain clear or yellowish fluid, numbering from a few to several thousand on one person. Meanwhile, the rash tends to concentrate on the face, palms of the hands, and soles of the feet.
How long do the symptoms last?
Symptoms usually last between two to four weeks. These then go away on their own without treatment.
Is monkeypox deadly?
Although symptoms usually disappear on their own, they can lead to medical complications and even death in some individuals. Newborns, children, and people with underlying immune deficiencies might be at increased risk of serious symptoms and death from monkeypox.
What should you do if you think you have monkeypox?
Immediately seek advice from your healthcare provider. Inform them if you have had close contact with someone who has suspected or confirmed monkeypox. If possible, self-isolate and avoid close contact with anyone.
How does monkeypox spread from animals?
People can contract monkeypox when they come into physical contact with infected animals like rodents and primates. They can reduce the risk by avoiding unprotected contact with wild animals, especially those sick or dead (including their meat and blood).
How does monkeypox spread from other people?
People can catch monkeypox through close physical contact with someone who has symptoms. The rash, scabs, and bodily fluids (such as liquid, pus, or blood from skin lesions) are particularly infectious. Ulcers, lesions, or sores in the mouth can also be infectious, meaning the virus can spread through saliva. Clothing, bedding, towels, or other contaminated objects can also infect others.
How can I protect myself from monkeypox?
Limit contact with people who have suspected or confirmed monkeypox. Regularly clean your hands with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand rub.
Is monkeypox at risk of becoming a larger outbreak?
WHO said “the risk to the general public is low” since monkeypox is not typically considered to be very contagious. This is because it requires close physical contact with someone who is infectious to spread between people. Furthermore, health authorities are responding to the current monkeypox outbreak as a high priority to avoid further spread.
Banner Photo by James Wiseman on Unsplash
