What is monkeypox?
Monkeypox is a viral infection that was originally discovered in monkeys, which is where it gets its name. The virus causes fevers and a rash that is usually painful.
Mostly prevalent in central and west Africa, monkeypox was uncommon in the US. But in 2022, there has been an outbreak of cases in the US. This has raised some concern due to the abrupt increase in number of cases however most people who get monkeypox will not get critically ill or die.
What are some of the symptoms of monkeypox?
Symptoms usually start between 4 to 14 days after the person is infected. Initial symptoms may be like the common cold including fever, feeling tried, muscle aches and headaches. Then after a few days, the rash appears.
For some the rash may be the only symptom they have and my not be aware that they are sck until the rash appears.
Rash will start out as few pimples or blisters like bumps and more will appear as time goes on.
Rash can affect the hands, feet, face, mouth, genital, anal area, and other parts of the body.
The rash will swell with fluids, pop and turn into an itchy scab over time. It is generally painful.
How does monkeypox spread?
Having physical contact with someone who is infected, especially their rash, body fluids, or scabs. A person is most contagious when they have the rash.
Touching objects that an infected person has touched.
Close contact through droplets from lungs. For example, though close face to face contact such as kissing.
There is a risk for pregnant person to pass the infection to their baby.
Who is at risk for monkeypox?
In short, anyone can get monkeypox after a close exposure to an infected person, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
Who is at risk for severe disease?
Although there is not enough information yet, people with underlying immunodeficiency may be at risk for more severe disease.
Prior data had showed possible worse disease in children. However, so far of the reported children infected during the recent outbreak (up to this current date of post), no increase in severe disease in children has been seen yet.
What do you do if you have symptoms?
Call your doctor to schedule appointment for an exam. Avoid close contact with anyone until you have been examined by your doctor.
Is there a test for monkeypox?
Yes, you doctor can either perform a PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) test of a swabbed sample of the lesion or a blood test to check for the antibody of the virus.
What should you do if think you were exposed to the virus?
After possible exposure to someone with the virus, you should contact your doctor for further instructions.
You should watch for symptoms over the course of 21 days and if you start noticing any symptoms, you should alert your doctor.
Vaccines maybe beneficial for those who were exposed or at risk for exposure. Speak to your doctor for more information.
Are there any treatments for monkeypox?
Most people will recover in a few weeks without getting too ill. People with active infection should quarantines to limit exposure to the public.
In certain limited cases your doctor may recommend some antiviral medication such as tecovirimat or cidofovir.
How to avoid being exposed to monkeypox?
In short, avoiding close contact with anyone who may have monkeypox is the best way to avoid being exposed.
Avoid anyone with monkeypox until rash has completely healed.
How to avoid spreading monkeypox if you are infected?
Isolation/quarantining from others is the best way to avoid spreading the infection to others. Continue isolation util all of the scabs have fallen off and new skin has healed over completely.
Wash any household items, and hand as often as possible. Do not share any items with others.
Cover any part of the body that has the rash and wear a face mask.
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