24/05/2025
Monkeypox is a rare viral disease caused by the monkeypox virus, which belongs to the same family of viruses as smallpox (Orthopoxvirus), but it is generally less severe.
Key Facts About Monkeypox:
Transmission:
Animal-to-human: Through contact with infected animals (e.g., rodents, primates) via bites, scratches, or handling of animal products.
Human-to-human: Through close contact with respiratory droplets, skin lesions, or contaminated materials like bedding or clothing.
Can also be transmitted through intimate physical contact, including sexual contact.
Symptoms:
Fever
Headache
Muscle aches
Swollen lymph nodes
Chills and exhaustion
A distinctive rash that often begins on the face and spreads to other parts of the body, forming blisters that scab over.
Incubation Period: Usually 6 to 13 days, but can range from 5 to 21 days.
Duration: Symptoms typically last 2 to 4 weeks.
Severity: Most cases are mild, but severe illness and death can occur, especially in people with weakened immune systems.
Prevention:
Avoid contact with infected animals and people.
Practice good hygiene.
Use personal protective equipment (PPE) when caring for infected individuals.
Smallpox vaccines offer some cross-protection against monkeypox.
Treatment:
Most people recover without specific treatment.
Antiviral drugs like tecovirimat (TPOXX) may be used in severe cases.
Let me know if you'd like details about recent outbreaks or guidance on prevention strategies.
