Monkeypox: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment & Vaccine
Monkeypox is a poxvirus, related to smallpox, that causes flu-like symptoms and a severe rash that can persist for several weeks. In light of the recent outbreaks of this rare condition, there are several things you should know about the symptoms, how it spreads, treatment, and prevention.
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What is monkeypox?
Monkeypox is a poxvirus, related to smallpox. It is not closely related to the chickenpox virus.
What are the symptoms of monkeypox?
Typically, monkeypox begins similar to many other viral illnesses with symptoms like fever, swollen lymph nodes, headache, sore throat, body aches, and fatigue. A rash will generally develop and go through several stages, including a stage of fluid and pus-filled blisters that eventually scab over. The lesions typically concentrate on the arms and legs, but in this outbreaks, they’re showing up more frequently on the genital and perianal area.
How is monkeypox spread?
Monkeypox spreads through close contact, including direct physical contact with lesions as well as “respiratory secretions” shared through face-to-face interaction and touching objects that have been contaminated by monkeypox lesions. Many of the cases in the outbreak appear to be connected to sexual contact.
How soon after exposure to the virus do you get sick?
On average it takes 5 to 13 days after exposure for the symptoms to start, but could take as long as 21 days.
How long does monkeypox last?
Symptoms usually last between 2 to 4 weeks. Severe cases may last longer.
What should I do if I have monkeypox symptoms?
If you notice a new rash or other monkeypox symptoms, avoid any close contact with other people until you have seen a doctor and gotten tested. If you’re diagnosed with monkeypox, the CDC recommends isolation at home and away from others until the rash or lesions are gone.
What is the treatment for monkeypox?
There is currently no approved treatment specific for monkeypox. Treatment for monkeypox should also include efforts to manage symptoms and complications. Because it’s genetically similar to smallpox, doctors can use similar treatments, such as antiviral medications.
The CDC is making doses of tecovirimate, an antiviral medication also known as Tpoxx, available for monkeypox patients at risk of severe disease. This may include those whose infection has advanced into the severe stage and people with weakened immune systems.
Is there a monkeypox vaccine?
Jynneos is a vaccine specifically intended for monkeypox, but it’s in short supply. Federal stock is being distributed to municipalities based on the number of cases and the population at risk in a given area. Jynneos is a two-dose vaccine, with a four-week gap between doses.
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