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Monkeypox is a serious disease that can have serious health consequences for people and domestic animals. Unlike other viruses, it belongs to the same family as smallpox and has similar symptoms, including high fever, muscle aches, headache, and exhaustion. The virus itself is transmitted through contact with bodily fluids or lesions of infected individuals, or through direct contact with infected animals.
Even though this disease does not appear any deadlier than a flu virus on the surface, it’s always better to take preventative measures and stay informed if you ever encounter individuals affected by this condition. In this article, we’ll answer some of the most commonly asked questions about monkeypox.
What is monkeypox?
Monkeypox is a serious illness caused by the monkeypox virus. The virus can be transmitted from animals to humans through zoonotic transmissions, in which the virus passes from vertebrates to humans. This can occur in a number of different ways, including skin-to-skin contact with an infected animal, sharing contaminated objects such as clothing or bedding, and kissing or hugging an infected person.
What are the symptoms of monkeypox?
When you are infected with monkeypox, you may experience a range of symptoms that can be quite painful and uncomfortable. These might include fatigue and low energy levels, headaches and muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, and fever. You may also notice blisters on various parts of your body, including the hands, feet, mouth, genitals, and face.
Is monkeypox curable?
Unfortunately, there is no specific treatment for monkeypox at the moment, though several antiviral medications may help to manage its symptoms. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that people with severe monkeypox disease, patients who are immunocompromised, children under the age of eight, and pregnant women should be considered for antiviral treatment.
In addition to antiviral medications, there are also vaccines available to prevent the spread of the monkeypox virus. The Food and Drug Administration has approved both JYNNEOS and ACAM2000 as viable vaccines against this infection. When given early enough after exposure (within four days), these vaccines may help lessen the severity of monkeypox and reduce the risk of complications or long-term health effects.
Can monkeypox spread by touch?
Yes, monkeypox can be transmitted from person to person through physical contact. This is why it is important to practice good hygiene and avoid touching people who are infected with the virus. It is also important to take extra precautions when caring for or handling animals that may have been exposed to this virus, as that can increase your risk of infection.
It is also important to note that monkeypox can spread more easily in crowded or enclosed spaces, such as hospitals and schools. If you are concerned about your risk of exposure to this virus, it is best to limit your time spent in these types of places and avoid contact with infected individuals whenever possible.
Can monkeypox look like acne?
Monkeypox can sometimes look like acne, as it may appear as small bumps or blisters on the skin that resemble acne breakouts. However, unlike acne, none of these symptoms will be accompanied by redness and inflammation.
If you are concerned about whether your symptoms may be related to monkeypox, it is best to speak with a doctor or medical professional right away. They will be able to perform a physical examination and take samples of your skin to test for the presence of monkeypox infection. If you are diagnosed with monkeypox, they can also help you come up with a treatment plan that will mitigate your symptoms and reduce your risk of complications.
Can cats or dogs give you monkeypox?
At this time, there is no evidence to suggest that cats or dogs can transmit monkeypox to humans. However, certain animals may be more likely to carry the virus, including squirrels and rodents. If you have pets at home that may have come into contact with infected animals, it is important to take extra precautions in handling them. For example, you should always wash your hands thoroughly after handling or interacting with pets. Additionally, it is best to keep your pets away from infected individuals, as this can increase the risk of transmission.
Can you get monkeypox twice?
There is no definitive answer to this question, as research has not yet determined whether people can get monkeypox more than once. However, there people who have already contracted the virus may be immune to it for several years due to vaccines they received. Therefore, if you are exposed again at a later point in time, you may be less likely to experience any symptoms.
That said, it is important to note that monkeypox can cause severe complications in some people. Therefore, it is best to take all necessary precautions when exposed to this virus. If you suspect that you have been infected, seek medical attention right away so that you can receive the treatment you need to minimize your symptoms and reduce your risk of complications.
How long do you have to isolate with monkeypox?
There is no definitive answer to this question, as it will depend on a number of factors. In some cases, you may need to be isolated for two to four weeks until your symptoms subside and any virus present in your body has cleared. This can help minimize the risk of transmission to others and reduce the severity of your symptoms.
However, if you are unable to remain fully isolated throughout the illness, make sure to do the following:
- Wear clothing, gloves, and/or bandages to cover the rash.
- Do not share worn or handled items with others or animals. Wash or disinfect items that have been worn or handled and surfaces that have been touched by a lesion.
- Avoid close physical contact, including sexual or intimate contact, with other people.
- Avoid sharing utensils or cups. Items should be cleaned and disinfected before use by others.
- Avoid crowds and congregate settings.
- Wash hands often with soap and water. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, especially after direct contact with the rash.
Can I travel with monkeypox?
If you are experiencing symptoms, it is important to take precautions against spreading the virus. If you suspect that you have monkeypox, do not travel until you confirm that you are free of infection. In the meantime, isolate yourself at home or in another location until your symptoms have subsided and your rash has healed completely. This means allowing all scabs to heal and new skin to form before resuming normal activities.
If you must travel while you are symptomatic, make sure to take all necessary steps to prevent the spread of infection. This means taking steps to manage your temperature and avoiding respiratory symptoms like sore throat, nasal congestion, or cough. Most importantly, be sure to cover your rash using loose fitting clothing, as well as wear a well-fitting mask if possible. With these precautions in place, you can reduce your risk of infecting others while traveling with monkeypox.
Make sure you’re monkeypox-free
Monkeypox is a serious virus that poses a significant risk to human health. If you are experiencing any symptoms that may be related to monkeypox, it is important to see a doctor or medical professional right away. You can find a monkeypox test near you at any Nao Medical location. So don’t take any chances, stay informed about the risks associated with monkeypox infection and take steps to protect yourself from this harmful virus.
