Monkeypox is a viral infection that is in the same family as the smallpox virus. However, scientists have found that monkeypox is not as contagious, doesn’t cause as severe symptoms, and is not nearly as fatal. Monkeypox was typically found in areas of central and western Africa, but as of 2022, it has spread worldwide.
AFC Urgent Care Hillsdale is here to provide patients with information and recommendations for treating monkeypox. While it may not be as infectious as smallpox, monkeypox is still highly contagious. If you think you may have come into contact with someone who has monkeypox, call our center to determine your next steps. Continue reading to learn more about what scientists have discovered on monkeypox.
Signs and Symptoms of Monkeypox
For anyone who has become infected with monkeypox, it has been found that their symptoms typically begin within three weeks of exposure. Essentially, all patients with monkeypox will experience a rash that resembles pimples or blisters on the skin. Other symptoms that are common but not every case will experience include:
- Fever
- Muscle aches
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Swollen lymph nodes
It’s possible to experience these flu-like symptoms and then a rash a few days later, or the rash first and then additional symptoms a few days later. The rash will eventually scab over, and new skin will form. Until the new skin has formed and the rash is completely healed, patients are contagious.
How Does Monkeypox Spread?
The most common way that monkeypox has spread throughout the world is through close contact with others. This can include both skin-to-skin contact and just general close contact. Monkeypox can also spread by touching clothes, bedding, or towels touched by an infected person.
Monkeypox can also spread from a pregnant person to a fetus, being scratched or bitten or eating the meat of an infected animal. It’s possible to spread monkeypox from the time your symptoms begin until your rash has completely healed. Recovery can last two to four weeks.
How Can I Protect Myself from Monkeypox?
It is completely possible to protect yourself from getting monkeypox. First, be sure to avoid close contact with anyone who appears to be infected with monkeypox. This means no hugging, kissing, or intimate contact and no sharing of utensils or cups. Be sure to also wash your hands thoroughly after contact with anyone who is sick with any disease.
If you are traveling to Central or West Africa, be sure to avoid any animals who may transmit the disease and avoid touching anything they may have touched.
If you find yourself sick with monkeypox, be sure to stay home and avoid contact with others while you recover. Try to avoid contact with anyone you may live with, including any pets. If you need to leave your home for any medical visit, be sure to wear a mask the entire time.
The U.S. government has approved a vaccine for monkeypox. Use this resource to learn more about receiving a monkeypox vaccine.
