Introduction
Monkeypox is a rare viral infection that is similar to smallpox, but much less severe. It is caused by the monkeypox virus, which is found mainly in Central and West African countries. Symptoms of monkeypox usually appear within 7-14 days after exposure to the virus and can include fever, headache, muscle aches, and a rash. According to an infectious disease expert, the rash associated with monkeypox is typically made up of small, red bumps that can become pus-filled blisters. In some cases, the rash can spread to other parts of the body, including the face, hands, and feet. In addition to the rash, other symptoms of monkeypox can include swollen lymph nodes, chills, and fatigue. It is important to note that monkeypox is not spread through food or water, but rather through contact with an infected animal or person. If you think you may have been exposed to the monkeypox virus, it is important to seek medical attention right away.
Monkeypox Symptoms Usually Appear Like This, According to an Infectious Disease Expert
Monkeypox is a rare viral infection that is similar to smallpox, but much milder. It is caused by the monkeypox virus, which is found in some animals, such as rodents and primates. While it is not common in humans, it can be spread from animals to humans, and from person to person. According to an infectious disease expert, the symptoms of monkeypox usually appear like this.
Early Symptoms
The early symptoms of monkeypox usually appear within 7 to 14 days after exposure to the virus. These symptoms include fever, headache, muscle aches, and swollen lymph nodes. A rash may also appear on the face, chest, and back. The rash usually starts as small bumps that become filled with fluid and eventually form a crust.
Later Symptoms
As the infection progresses, the rash may spread to other parts of the body, including the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet. The bumps may become filled with pus and may become painful. Other symptoms may include chills, fatigue, and eye irritation. In some cases, the infection can cause difficulty breathing, chest pain, and even pneumonia.
Treatment
If you think you may have been exposed to the monkeypox virus, it is important to seek medical attention right away. Treatment typically involves supportive care, such as rest and fluids, as well as antiviral medications. In some cases, antibiotics may be prescribed to treat any secondary bacterial infections.
It is important to remember that monkeypox is a rare infection, and the risk of infection is low. However, if you think you may have been exposed to the virus, it is important to seek medical attention right away.
The World Health Organization declared the rapidly spreading monkeypox outbreak a global health emergency. The declaration is WHO’s the highest level of alert and a sign that monkeypox is a significant threat to global health and that a coordinated international response is needed.
As an immunologist and allergist at NYU Langone and an Assistant professor of medicine in the division of infectious disease and immunology, I observe a rise in cases globally and want to make sure that everyone is aware of the symptoms and risks. It’s important to know when you should seek treatment or know when you have been exposed to obtain a vaccine.
What are the symptoms of monkeypox?
The first symptom feels like a flu-like illness — fatigue, cough, fever, and cough. You can also have swelling of lymph nodes.
The characteristic “pox” rash which are fluid-filled vesicles that look like small round blisters and can be on the face, genitalia, or skin anywhere on the body.
If you have been exposed, get a vaccine immediately through the department of health: if you have the symptoms, please notify your close contacts you may have been exposed especially sexual partners.
RELATED: Sure Signs You’ve Already Had COVID.
How can someone stay safe from monkeypox?
It appears sexual contact is the most common form of transmission right now, although it is possible through close contact with droplets too. Use protection with sexual partners and continue to mask indoors.
These factors put people in danger of getting monkeypox:
- Multiple sexual partners
- Immunocompromised individuals
- Travel to endemic areas of the world that have high rates of monkeypox (although most of the recent contact has not been linked to monkeypox). And to protect your life and the lives of others, don’t visit any of these 35 Places You’re Most Likely to Catch COVID.
Purvi Parikh, MD Infectious Disease Allergy and Immunology, Pediatric Allergy & Immunology with NYU Langone Health