What is Monkeypox?
Monkeypox is a rare disease caused by infection with the monkeypox virus. Monkeypox virus is part of the same family of viruses as variola virus, the virus that causes smallpox. Monkeypox symptoms are similar to smallpox symptoms, but milder, and monkeypox is rarely fatal. Monkeypox is not related to chickenpox.
Monkeypox spreads in different ways. The virus can spread from person-to-person through:
- direct contact with the infectious rash, scabs, or body fluids
- respiratory secretions during prolonged, face-to-face contact, or during intimate physical contact, such as kissing, cuddling, or sex
- touching items (such as clothing or linens) that previously touched the infectious rash or body fluids
- pregnant people can spread the virus to their fetus through the placenta
It’s also possible for people to get monkeypox from infected animals, either by being scratched or bitten by the animal or by preparing or eating meat or using products from an infected animal.
Current Status
World Health Organization says monkeypox outbreak in more than 70 countries is now a global emergency. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said more than 2,300 confirmed cases of monkeypox have been found in the United States as of July 20. Not many pediatric cases of monkeypox have been reported but public health experts warn that no one is immune, and both pregnant women and children could catch the virus. The international public health agency notes that the overall case fatality rates have been higher among young children than in the general population, and children with medical issues or compromised immune systems are at particular risk if they get the highly contagious virus.
Takeaway:
- Maintain hand-hygiene. Use alcohol-based sanitizers.
- Avoid sharing clothes, towels & personal use items (bedding, cups, and utensils)
- Keep children away from people who are infected.
- Avoid sick animals.
- Consult a family doctor or pediatrician if a child who has a rash with blisters has been near someone who might have monkeypox within the past three weeks or has traveled to western or central Africa within that time period.
Source: Internet, CDC, FDA, Babycenter, Medical News & Others
The views expressed in this article should not be considered as a substitute for a physician’s advice. Always make sure to seek a doctor or a professional’s advice before proceeding with the home treatment plan.
