Monkeypox: Symptoms, Prevention, and Treatment

Monkeypox, an infectious disease caused by the monkeypox virus, is spreading globally, including within the United States.

The virus primarily spreads through close contact with an infected person but can also be transmitted from infected animals.

The current outbreak involves the West African strain, which causes milder symptoms than the Central African strain and is rarely fatal.

How Monkeypox Spreads

Monkeypox spreads through:

Direct contact with bodily fluids, sores, scabs, or respiratory droplets from an infected person. This includes activities like kissing, cuddling, or sex.

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Contact with contaminated materials, such as clothing or bedding.

Scratches or bites from infected animals, or contact with an infected animal’s blood or bodily fluids.

Symptoms of Monkeypox

Symptoms typically appear 1 to 2 weeks after exposure and include:

Flu-like symptoms: chills, fever, exhaustion, headache, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes.

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A rash that resembles pimples or blisters, which can appear on the face, mouth, hands, feet, chest, genitals, or anus. The rash progresses through stages before healing completely.

The illness usually lasts 2 to 4 weeks.

When to Seek Medical Care

Fever, aches, or swollen lymph nodes.

A new rash or sores.

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Close contact with someone infected with monkeypox.

Seek emergency care if you experience:

A stiff neck, chest pain, confusion, difficulty speaking, seizures, or trouble breathing.

Prevention and Vaccination

To prevent monkeypox:

Avoid close contact with infected individuals or materials they have used.

Clean high-touch surfaces and wash hands frequently.

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If close contact is necessary, wear a mask.

Vaccines such as JYNNEOS and ACAM2000 are available to prevent infection, especially for those exposed or at high risk. The supply of these vaccines is currently limited.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Monkeypox is diagnosed through PCR testing of a swab from a skin lesion. Most people recover without treatment in 2 to 4 weeks, but relief measures include hydration, rest, oatmeal baths, and over-the-counter pain relievers. Antiviral treatments for smallpox may also be used in severe cases.