If you need MPOX (Monkeypox) testing near Asheville, NC, AFC Urgent Care Arden is here to assist you. We provide quick results and treatment to help you recover. Visit us 7 days a week – no appointment necessary.

What is Monkeypox? 

Monkeypox is a viral infection stemming from the monkeypox virus, which is related to the smallpox virus. It was originally found only in African rodents and non-human primates, but the number of human cases has been on the rise. In its early days, the virus was primarily in Central and West Africa, but now it has reached nearly every continent. The rapid spread of the virus is likely due to international travel, contact with imported animals or being exposed to individuals who are infected.

 Monkeypox Symptoms

If you are infected with monkeypox, you will experience flu-like symptoms. Symptoms of monkeypox typically appear 5 days to 3 weeks after exposure to the virus and include:

•  Fever
• Headache
• Muscle aches
• Fatigue
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Rash

 You may develop a rash 1-4 days after being infected with monkeypox, usually starting on the face, hands or feet and can spread to other parts of the body. Flu-like symptoms will likely appear, either before or after the rash is visible.  Symptoms may last 2-4 weeks with the rash scabbing over and falling off towards the end of the illness.

 The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has reported that the smallpox vaccine has been proven to be at least 85% effective in protecting against monkeypox, based on past data from Africa. People who received the smallpox vaccine during the last major outbreak from 1949-1980 are less likely to have severe symptoms if infected with monkeypox, however, it is still essential to be vigilant. If you have had the smallpox vaccine and do contract monkeypox, your symptoms are expected to be milder.

How does Monkeypox spread?

Monkeypox can be spread through:

•  Direct contact with the rash, scabs or bodily fluid of an infected person
• Touching objects or surfaces touched by an infected person
• Kissing or sexual conduct with an infected person
• Extended close contact with an infected person, especially 4 or more hours in an area where respiratory droplets may easily spread.

 Avoid contact with those infected with monkeypox and high transmission areas to reduce the spread of this virus. Don’t contact others and avoid public areas if you’ve been infected so you don’t spread the virus.

 Monkeypox Testing & Treatment

If you think that you have been exposed to the monkeypox virus or are exhibiting flu-like symptoms, it is critical to see medical assistance right away. At AFC Urgent Care, our medical personnel can do tests to detect the virus and provide treatments for the symptoms. While there is no explicit cure for monkeypox, our team can prescribe medications to reduce your symptoms and antiviral medication. The smallpox vaccine is effective in preventing monkeypox due to the genetic similarities between the two viruses.

 Whether you have symptoms or have been recently exposed to monkeypox, our team is ready to provide the care and guidance you need. Call our office today for more information about monkeypox testing and treatment.