Understanding Monkeypox: Symptoms, Risks, and Prevention
Know about monkeypox, symptoms, causes, risks, transmission of monkeypox, Diagnosis, treatment and prevention of monkeypox and more.
Introduction
Monkeypox made global headlines, sparking concern and confusion. While the public health emergency has ended, the virus hasn't disappeared. Understanding what it is, how it spreads, and how to protect yourself is key to staying healthy and calm. This guide cuts through the noise to give you clear, actionable information about monkeypox.
What Is Monkeypox?
Monkeypox is a viral zoonotic disease, meaning it can spread from animals to humans. It is caused by the monkeypox virus, which belongs to the same family of viruses as smallpox (the Orthopoxvirus genus). While its symptoms are similar to smallpox, they are noticeably milder, and monkeypox is rarely fatal.
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A Brief History of the Virus
First discovered in 1958 in colonies of monkeys kept for research (hence the name), the first human case was recorded in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. For decades, it was primarily found in central and western African countries. The 2022 global outbreak was significant because it saw sustained person-to-person transmission in many non-endemic countries for the first time.
Monkeypox vs. Smallpox: Key Differences
While related, they are distinct viruses. The key difference is severity: smallpox was more easily transmitted and had a much higher mortality rate (~30%). Thanks to the success of the smallpox vaccine, it was declared eradicated in 1980. Crucially, smallpox vaccines also protect against monkeypox.
How Does Monkeypox Spread?
Understanding transmission is the first step to prevention. The virus spreads through close, personal, often skin-to-skin contact.
Primary Modes of Transmission
- Direct Contact with Rash or Scabs: This is the most common way the virus spreads. This includes touching the rash, scabs, or body fluids of a person with monkeypox.
- Respiratory Secretions: Through prolonged face-to-face contact (which requires proximity for several hours), where respiratory droplets are exchanged, such as kissing or being coughed on.
- Intimate Contact: This includes hugging, massage, and any form of sexual or intimate contact.
- Contaminated Materials: Touching items that previously touched the infectious rash or body fluids, such as clothing, bedding, or towels.
Can You Get Monkeypox from Surfaces?
Yes, but the risk is considered lower than direct person-to-person contact. The virus can survive on surfaces, making it possible to contract it from shared objects like towels or bedding. However, the virus is enveloped, meaning it is susceptible to common household disinfectants. Regular cleaning can effectively mitigate this risk.
Recognising the Symptoms of Monkeypox
Symptoms usually appear one to two weeks after exposure, but can range from 5 to 21 days. The illness typically lasts 2 to 4 weeks.
The Early Signs: Fever, Headache, Exhaustion
Many people experience flu-like symptoms before a rash develops. These early monkeypox symptoms include:
- Fever
- Headache
- Muscle aches and backache
- Swollen lymph nodes (a key feature that distinguishes it from chickenpox)
- Chills
- Exhaustion
The Rash: Development and Stages
The rash often begins within 1-3 days of the fever. It goes through several stages before falling off:
1. Macules: Flat, discoloured bumps.
2. Papules: Raised bumps.
3. Vesicles: Small blisters filled with clear fluid.
4. Pustules: Blisters filled with yellowish fluid.
5. Scabs: The pustules dry up and crust over, forming scabs that later fall off.
The rash can be located anywhere on the body and may look like pimples or blisters. It can be painful or itchy until the healing stage.
How Long Do Symptoms Last?
The entire illness, from the onset of flu-like symptoms to the disappearance of all scabs, typically lasts 2 to 4 weeks. A person is contagious from the start of symptoms until the rash has fully healed and a fresh layer of skin has formed.
Who Is Most at Risk?
Current Risk Assessment for the General Public
The current risk to the general public in most countries is considered low. However, the virus is still circulating, so awareness remains important.
High-Risk Groups
Anyone who has close contact with an infected person is at risk. During the 2022 outbreak, data showed the virus disproportionately affected certain groups, including:
- Men who have sex with men (MSM) with multiple partners.
- Household contacts and intimate partners of people with monkeypox.
- Healthcare workers without proper personal protective equipment (PPE).
How Is Monkeypox Diagnosed?
If you suspect you have monkeypox, it's crucial to contact a healthcare provider. Diagnosis requires a PCR test. A healthcare professional will swab one or more lesions to collect a sample for testing. Blood tests are not recommended, as the virus stays in the body for a short time.
Monkeypox Treatment and Care
Most cases are mild and resolve on their own without specific treatment.
At-Home Management for Mild Cases
- Isolate: Stay in a separate room and use a separate bathroom from other household members to avoid spreading the virus.
- Manage Symptoms: Use over-the-counter pain relievers (like acetaminophen or ibuprofen) and antihistamines for itching.
- Skin Care: Keep the rash clean, dry, and uncovered. You can use a moistened bandage if needed.
Antiviral Medications
In severe cases or for people at high risk of severe disease (e.g., those with weakened immune systems), healthcare providers may prescribe an antiviral treatment like Tecovirimat (TPOXX), which was originally developed for smallpox.
Preventing Monkeypox Infection
Practical Everyday Precautions
- Avoid close, skin-to-skin contact with people who have a rash that looks like monkeypox.
- Do not share eating utensils or cups with a person with monkeypox.
- 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 sanitiser.
The Role of Vaccination
Vaccines developed for smallpox can protect against monkeypox. The JYNNEOS vaccine is a two-dose vaccine approved for the prevention of monkeypox. It is recommended as post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) for people who have been exposed and as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for individuals at higher risk of exposure.
When to See a Doctor?
Contact a healthcare provider immediately if:
- You develop a new, unexplained rash.
- You have had known exposure to someone with monkeypox.
- Your symptoms are severe, including severe pain or signs of a secondary infection (like increased redness or pus).
Conclusion
Staying informed about monkeypox empowers you to make smart decisions for your health. While the intense global emergency has passed, the virus remains a public health concern. The cornerstone of protection is understanding how it spreads through prolonged, close contact and taking simple, practical steps to minimise risk. If you develop an unexplained rash, especially accompanied by fever, the most important action is to isolate and seek medical advice promptly.
Consult a General Practitioner for Personalised Advice
Consult a General Practitioner for Personalised Advice
Dr. Gaddam Manoj
General Practitioner
1 Years • MBBS
Hyderabad
Aaradhya clinic, Hyderabad
Dr. Sahana B
General Practitioner
3 Years • MBBS
Koppal
Khushi multi-speciality hospital, Koppal
Dr. Mainak Baksi
General Practitioner
13 Years • MBBS , MD (MPH)
Howrah
Mainak Baksi Clinic, Howrah
(50+ Patients)
Dr Suseela
General Physician
5 Years • MBBS
Bengaluru
Apollo Medical Center, Marathahalli, Bengaluru
Dr. Rajib Ghose
General Practitioner
25 Years • MBBS
East Midnapore
VIVEKANANDA SEBA SADAN, East Midnapore
Consult a General Practitioner for Personalised Advice
Dr. Gaddam Manoj
General Practitioner
1 Years • MBBS
Hyderabad
Aaradhya clinic, Hyderabad
Dr. Sahana B
General Practitioner
3 Years • MBBS
Koppal
Khushi multi-speciality hospital, Koppal
Dr. Mainak Baksi
General Practitioner
13 Years • MBBS , MD (MPH)
Howrah
Mainak Baksi Clinic, Howrah
(50+ Patients)
Dr Suseela
General Physician
5 Years • MBBS
Bengaluru
Apollo Medical Center, Marathahalli, Bengaluru
Dr. Rajib Ghose
General Practitioner
25 Years • MBBS
East Midnapore
VIVEKANANDA SEBA SADAN, East Midnapore
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is monkeypox deadly?
For most people, monkeypox is not life-threatening. While it can be serious, especially for immunocompromised individuals, children, and pregnant people, the strain that circulated globally in 2022 had a very low fatality rate.
How long is monkeypox contagious?
The person is contagious from the onset of symptoms until the rash has completely healed, all scabs have fallen off, and a fresh layer of skin has formed. This process can take 2-4 weeks.
Can you get monkeypox more than once?
It is believed that recovery from a monkeypox infection provides long-term immunity. Reinfection is considered very rare, though research is ongoing.
What does the monkeypox rash look like?
The rash evolves from flat spots to raised bumps, then to fluid-filled blisters, pus-filled blisters, and finally scabs. It can be mistaken for acne, herpes, or chickenpox, which is why a medical diagnosis is essential.
Where can I get the monkeypox vaccine?
Availability varies by location. Contact your local health department, sexual health clinic, or primary care provider to inquire about vaccine eligibility and locations near you.