17/01/2026
, now commonly called mpox, is a viral disease that affects humans. It is caused by the monkeypox virus, which belongs to the same family as the virus. Although mpox can affect anyone,
The good news is that with the right information, early care, and simple preventive measures, mpox can be controlled and treated effectively.
❇️Mpox is spread through close and direct contact, including:
☑️Skin-to-skin contact with an infected person, especially contact with rashes, blisters, or scabs
☑️Contact with body fluids such as saliva or respiratory droplets during prolonged close contact
☑️Sharing personal items like bedding, towels, clothes, or utensils used by an infected person
☑️Contact with infected animals, through bites, scratches, or handling raw meat
😂It is important to note that mpox is not spread easily through casual contact like passing someone on the street.
❇️Symptoms usually appear 5–21 days after exposure and may include:
☑️Fever
☑️Headache
☑️Body aches and back pain
☑️Swollen lymph nodes
☑️General weakness or fatigue
☑️Skin rash, which later turns into fluid filled blisters and then scabs. The rash may appear on the face, hands, legs, mouth, or ge***al area.
❇️Monkeypox is diagnosed through Careful clinical examination by a healthcare professional and Laboratory testing, especially PCR tests done on samples taken from skin lesions and lastly Reviewing recent contact history or possible exposure
❇️The following are preventative measures You can use to protect yourself and others:
☑️Avoiding close contact with anyone who has a suspicious rash
☑️Washing hands regularly with soap and water
☑️Not sharing personal items such as towels, clothes, or bedding
☑️Using protective gloves and masks when caring for a sick person
☑️Following public health advice and isolation guidelines
☑️Vaccination for high risk individuals where available
❇️Monkeypox is not a death sentence and not a disease to fear or stigmatize. Knowledge is your strongest protection. By staying informed, practicing good hygiene, and seeking medical help early, you protect not only yourself but also your family and community.
© MLS. Samfogti Solomon