What is Monkey Pox? You may be wondering that since it’s been in the news a lot lately. Monkeypox is a rare, viral disease that is similar to smallpox. It occurs primarily in tropical and sub-tropical Africa, but there have been cases reported in other parts of the world as well.
Although it is not commonly known, monkeypox can be quite serious. In fact, it can even be deadly in some instances. So what can you do to stay safe from this potentially deadly virus? Keep reading for information about monkeypox and tips on how to protect yourself from it.
The World Health Organization (WHO) earlier called for a collaborative international response against the rapidly spreading monkeypox outbreak, which it referred to as a “public health emergency of international concern.”
What is monkeypox? How did it start?
Monkeypox is a rare virus that is closely related to smallpox. It is caused by the monkeypox virus, which is a member of the Orthopoxvirus family. The first human case of monkeypox was reported in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Since then, several cases have been reported in Africa and Europe. Most cases have occurred in persons who have been exposed to infected animals, particularly Gambian giant rats, although person-to-person transmission has also been documented.
Monkeypox symptoms
Monkeypox is a rare disease that is caused by the monkeypox virus. The symptoms of the disease are similar to those of smallpox. Among them are:
- Rash
- Painful bumps
- Itchy blisters
Accompanied by:
- Chills and blisters
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Headache
- Muscle aches
- Respiratory problems
You may feel like you’re coming down with something and it’s not always clear what is causing the symptoms. Some people get a rash first, then they experience other flu-like signs or just one sign of inflammation on their skin which can be very frustrating.
How long do symptoms last?
If you are exposed to the virus, you will usually start having symptoms within 3 weeks. The virus can be spread until the person has a rash, which typically happens 1-4 days after developing flu-like symptoms. The symptoms last for about 2-4 weeks.
How is monkeypox transmitted and who is at risk for contracting it?
Monkeypox is a rare disease that is related to chickenpox and smallpox. It is usually transmitted from animals to humans, but can also be spread from person to person. Most people who contract monkeypox will experience mild symptoms, but it can be deadly in some cases.
- Animal-to-human transmission of the virus can happen when someone comes into contact with the blood, body fluids, or skin lesions of an infected animal.
- In Africa, many animals have been found to be infected with the virus, including squirrels, rats, dormice, various monkey species, and others. Eating infected meat is also another possibility. People near forested areas may have indirect or low-level exposure to infected animals through their environment.
- Human-to-human transmission can happen when someone gets close to an infected person and breathes in their respiratory secretions or touches an infected person’s skin lesions.
- Transmission can also happen if someone comes in contact with objects recently contaminated with the virus. This can put health workers, household members, and other close contacts of active cases at risk.
- It is not clear yet if monkeypox can be transmitted through sexual contact, but it is a well-known risk factor for transmission.
There is no specific treatment for monkeypox, so prevention is key.
What are the treatment options for monkeypox patients
You should try to make the person feel better by giving them fluids and food. If they have a secondary infection, you should give them medicine to make them better. There is a medicine that can help people with monkeypox according to WHO (2022), but it is not available everywhere.
Monkeypox vaccination in the Philippines
The Philippines is set to receive supplies of monkeypox vaccines by 2023, according to DOH. They are also communicating with other member countries in ASEAN for possible procurement as a whole.
Last July 29th, the DOH confirmed an initial case involving a patient who had recovered from their illness and was discharged.
How can you prevent yourself from getting infected with monkeypox
Monkeypox is a serious viral infection that can be fatal in humans. The good news is that there are some simple steps you can take to protect yourself from this disease.
It’s here in the Philippines, but it’s not yet widespread. However, it’s still important to take precautions.
- First, avoid contact with wild animals, particularly monkeys, apes, and rodents. If you must come into contact with these animals, be sure to wear gloves and wash your hands thoroughly afterward.
- Second, avoid close contact with people who are infected with monkeypox. If you must be around someone who is sick, wear a face mask and avoid touching them or their belongings.
- Finally, make sure you are up-to-date on your vaccinations. According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the smallpox vaccine provides small protection against monkeypox, and it is also important to be vaccinated against other diseases that can be spread through close contacts, such as measles and chicken pox.
By taking these precautions, you can help keep yourself safe from monkeypox and other serious illnesses.
Conclusion
Monkeypox is a rare viral illness that is similar to smallpox, although it is typically less severe. It’s found primarily in animals, but it can spread to humans through contact with infected animal products or close contact with an infected person.
Symptoms include fever, rash, and lymphadenopathy (enlarged lymph nodes). Treatment is typically supportive, and most people recover within a few weeks. There is no specific antiviral therapy available.
However, vaccination against smallpox can provide some protection against monkeypox.
There have been several outbreaks of monkeypox in Africa over the past decade, but this is the first outbreak reported in the Philippines. It is important for people to be aware of the symptoms of monkeypox and take steps to protect themselves from exposure to the virus.
Good hand hygiene and avoidance of contact with wildlife are crucial for preventing infection. Anyone who develops symptoms compatible with monkeypox should seek medical attention and inform their healthcare providers about their potential exposure to the virus.
Early diagnosis and treatment of monkeypox are essential for preventing serious illness and death.
If you have any medical concerns, be sure to consult with a doctor. They will be able to give you the best advice for your specific situation. Trustworthy medical professionals are always a great resource to turn to when you need answers about your health.
