Monkeypox is typically found in Africa, but as of 2022, as been found in almost every country worldwide. You can get infected with monkeypox through close contact with an infected person. It’s important to learn the beginning signs of monkeypox to avoid catching it or spreading it to others.

AFC Urgent Care Toms River has the best interest of our community in mind. We want everyone to live as safely and healthily as possible. We offer a wide variety of testing services right at our center. Call to learn more about testing for monkeypox at 732-719-7788.

Common Monkeypox Symptoms

1. Fever

2. Intense headache

3. Muscle aches and backache

4. Chills

5. Swollen lymph nodes

6. Fatigue

7. Sore throat

8. Discharges from the eyes, nose, or mouth

9. Swollen glands

10. Rash

11. Lesions

12. Crusting of the skin

Progression of Monkeypox

Symptoms usually appear within 5-21 days after exposure to the virus, with an average incubation period of 12 days. Monkeypox is considered less severe than smallpox, with a fatality rate of 1-10%. However, in recent outbreaks, the fatality rate has been higher, up to 20%.

The first signs of monkeypox are similar to those of the flu, with fever, headache, and muscle aches. These are followed by chills, backache, swelling of the lymph nodes, and fatigue. A few days later, the patient may develop a sore throat, discharge from the eyes, nose, or mouth, and swollen glands.

The most distinguishing feature of monkeypox is the rash, which usually appears about two weeks after exposure to the virus. The rash begins as small red spots that turn into pus-filled blisters. The blisters eventually crust over and heal. The rash can begin anywhere, typically wherever a patient touched an infected surface and spread to other places as it develops.

In some cases, monkeypox can be fatal, but this is usually only in very young children and in people with weakened immune systems. However, even in healthy adults, monkeypox can be severe and lead to disability or disfigurement.

Different Forms of Monkeypox

There are two forms of monkeypox:

1. West African monkeypox: This is the more common form of the disease and is associated with a higher fatality rate. Symptoms are generally more severe, and the rash is often more widespread.

2. Central African monkeypox: This form of the disease is less common and is associated with a lower fatality rate. Symptoms are generally less severe, and the rash is often more localized.

Treatment of Monkeypox

There is no specific treatment for monkeypox. Treatment is generally supportive, which means that the symptoms are treated as they appear.

For example, pain and fever may be treated with paracetamol or ibuprofen. Antibiotics may also be prescribed to prevent secondary infections.

If you believe you may have been exposed to monkeypox, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and avoiding contact with others can make a significant difference in the outcome of this rare but serious disease. AFC Toms River can help connect you with top-rated healthcare providers who can provide you with testing if you think you may have contracted monkeypox.