What is it?
Monkeypox is a virus belonging to the same family as smallpox. It has less severe symptoms and is less lethal and transmissible than smallpox, but it has raised concerns due to rising cases. After cases sprang up in the United Kingdom in May, the virus has spread to other parts of the world, including the United States.
Is it new?
No, monkeypox is not a new virus. It was discovered in 1958, and the first human case was recorded in 1970. Medical professionals know what antiviral drugs to use for treatment and a vaccine exists for the virus family. The only issue is supply, as vaccine production halted when smallpox was eradicated in 1980.
How many cases are there?
As of September 8th the Center for Disease Control (CDC) reports about 56,600 global cases in 103 countries. There are about 21,500 US cases. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports only 18 deaths, which puts the fatality rate at 0.03%. The WHO assesses the risk in the Americas as moderate.
Why is it called monkeypox?
The virus was first discovered in monkeys.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms typically include a fever, a painful, itchy rash, and swollen lymph nodes.
How is it treated?
Most people recover fully in 2-4 weeks without any medical treatment. The incubation period from exposure to infection is 6-13 days.
How is it spread?
- Monkeypox is spread through close, sustained skin-to-skin contact, contact with bodily fluids, or touching objects such as clothing and towels used by a person with monkeypox.
- The virus mainly enters through mucous membranes in the eyes, nose, and mouth as well as the rectum and anus. It can also enter through broken skin.
- The WHO reports that of recorded types of transmission, sexual encounters were linked to 91.3% of cases. However, monkeypox is not an STD because it’s spread through other pathways, not just sex.
Who can get it?
Although this outbreak is mostly concentrated amongst men who have sex with men (accounting for 95.1% of cases according to the WHO), anyone can get monkeypox,
How can I prevent myself from catching it?
Limit close contact with people who have monkeypox. If you are living with someone who has it, use common household disinfectants to kill the virus on surfaces. As always, wash your hands.
