Monkeypox MPX is a disease caused by an infection with the monkeypox virus. This virus is part of the same family as smallpox but usually has milder symptoms than smallpox.
Monkeypox is named so because it was first discovered in in colonies of research monkeys. The first human case was recorded in in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and has since been reported in several central and western African countries. Monkeypox has gained prominence this year due to an international outbreak that began in May , with over cases in the US as of July People can catch monkeypox through direct contact with the skin of infected individuals.
The disease can also be spread during prolonged physical contacts, such as kissing or sex. Research also indicates that the disease can be spread by infected people coughing. Pregnant people infected can also spread the virus to their fetuses through the placenta. People can also get the disease by being bitten or scratched by an infected animal. Monkeypox can cause fever, chills, headache, muscle pains, exhaustion, and swelling of lymph nodes around the neck and armpits.
The most striking feature of a monkeypox infection is the large blisters or pimples on the face, inside of the mouth, hands, feet, chest, genitals, or anus. The blisters go through different stages before healing and can appear before, during, or after the other symptoms. Symptoms typically start days after exposure and can last up to 4 weeks.
People can prevent monkeypox infection by following many prevention methods we use for COVID prevention. Wear a mask or other personal protective equipment if you have to interact with someone infected or inside public buildings. Discuss monkeypox safety with sexual partners. Practice risk-reduction techniques during sex, such as using physical barriers, cleaning sex toys, and reporting any symptoms to a medical professional for testing and treatment. There are currently vaccines for monkeypox, which are now being distributed in select locations in major cities.
