Monkeypox
Monkeypox is a rare disease similar to smallpox caused by the monkeypox virus. It's found
mostly in areas of Africa, but has been seen in other regions of the world. It causes flu-like
symptoms such as fever and chills, and a rash that can take weeks to clear. There's no proven
treatment for monkeypox, but it usually goes away on its own.
What is monkeypox?
Monkeypox is a rare disease caused by the monkeypox virus. It leads to rash and flu-like
symptoms. Like the better known virus that causes smallpox, it's a member of the family called
orthopoxvirus.
How do you prevent monkeypox virus?
A smallpox vaccine provides protection against monkeypox, but its use is currently limited to
clinical trials. Prevention depends on decreasing human contact with infected animals and
limiting person-to-person spread. The best way to help prevent the spread of monkeypox virus is
to
How long does monkeypox last?
Monkeypox normally takes about two weeks to four weeks to run its course. If you're exposed to
monkeypox, your provider will monitor you until the rash resolves.
How is monkeypox diagnosed?
Because monkeypox is rare, a healthcare provider may first suspect other rash illnesses, such as
measles or chickenpox. But swollen lymph nodes usually distinguish monkeypox from other
poxes.
When should I go to the ER?
Seek medical care if you develop the following symptoms:
• Trouble breathing. • New or worsening chest pain. • Stiff neck. • Are confused or can't think
clearly. • Difficulty speaking or moving. • Loss of consciousness. • Seizures.
When should I see my healthcare provider?
• Feel sick with fever, aches or swollen lymph nodes. • Have a new rash or sores. • Have been in
close contact sore throat, nasal congestion, or cough)
How do I take care of myself with a person who is infected. Call your healthcare provider if you:
• Other symptoms of monkeypox can include:
• Fever • Chills • Swollen lymph nodes • Exhaustion • Muscle aches and backache • Headache •
Respiratory symptoms
If have monkeypox symptoms, there are over-the-counter medications that can help you feel
better,
What are the signs and symptoms of monkeypox?
After exposure, it may be several days to a few weeks before you develop symptoms. Early signs
of monkeypox include flu-like symptoms,
• Pain relievers and fever reducers. Medicines like ibuprofen (Advil®, Motrin®) and
acetaminophen (Tylenol()) can help you feel better.
Where else is monkeypox found?
For decades, Monkeypox was mostly been seen in Africa. However, it's occasionally found in
other countries, including the United States. In the spring of 2003, the first outbreak of
monkeypox outside of Africa occurred in the U.S. A shipment of infected animals from Ghana
was imported into Texas. The infected rodents spread the virus to pet prairie dogs, which then
infected 47 people in the Midwest.
How common is monkeypox?
Monkeypox is rare. But the number of cases is increasing in Africa, as well as in regions that
haven't seen these infections before.
Monkeypox vs. smallpox
Smallpox and monkeypox are both part of the orthopoxvirus family, so they're caused by similar
but distinct viruses. Thanks to effective vaccines, smallpox was eradicated (is no longer a
circulating disease) by 1980. Smallpox was very contagious and spread more easily than
monkeypox. Monkeypox symptoms are similar to smallpox, but milder.
What are the signs and symptoms of monkeypox?
After exposure, it may be several days to a few weeks before you develop symptoms. Early signs
of monkeypox include flu-like symptoms.
