Monkeypox is a rare disease caused by infection with the monkeypox virus. Monkeypox virus is part of the same family of viruses that causes smallpox which is unrelated to chickenpox. Monkeypox symptoms are similar to smallpox symptoms, but milder, and monkeypox is rarely fatal. Monkeypox was discovered in 1958 when two outbreaks of a pox-like disease occurred in colonies of monkeys kept for research. Despite being named “monkeypox,” the source of the disease remains unknown. However, African rodents and non-human primates (like monkeys) might harbor the virus and infect people. The first human case of monkeypox was recorded in 1970. Prior to the 2022 outbreak, monkeypox had been reported in people in several central and western African countries. Previously, almost all monkeypox cases in people outside of Africa were linked to international travel to countries where the disease commonly occurs or through imported animals.
Monkeypox can spread to anyone through close, personal, or skin contact including:
- Direct contact with monkeypox rash, sores, or scabs
- Contact with objects, fabrics, and surfaces that have been used bysomeone with monkeypox
- Through respiratory droplets or oral fluids from a person with monkeypox
- Being scratched, bitten, preparing/eating meat, or using products from an infected animal
Take the following steps to prevent getting monkeypox:
- Avoid close, skin to skin contact with the monkeypox rash
- Do not handle or touch the bedding, towels, or clothing of a person with monkeypox
- Wash your hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer
QVHD : 6 FYI’s About Monkeypox