News

Monkeypox, also known as Mpox, is a rare viral disease that has been gaining attention lately. Understanding the symptoms of this infection is essential for early detection and preventing its spread. This article explains in simple terms the main symptoms of monkeypox and offers tips on how to stay vigilant.

What is Monkeypox?

Monkeypox is a disease caused by the Mpox virus, which belongs to the orthopoxvirus family. This virus is closely related to the smallpox virus, a disease eradicated in the 1980s. Although monkeypox is much less dangerous than smallpox, it can still cause unpleasant and sometimes severe symptoms, especially in vulnerable individuals.

The Main Symptoms of Monkeypox

Monkeypox symptoms usually appear between 6 and 13 days after infection, but this period can range from 5 to 21 days. It is important to recognize these signs to act quickly.

1. Fever

The first symptom of monkeypox is often a sudden fever. This fever can be mild or high and is usually accompanied by intense fatigue. Fever is the body’s signal that it is fighting an infection, and in the case of monkeypox, it can last for several days.

2. Headaches and Muscle Aches

Soon after the fever appears, severe headaches and muscle aches may occur. These symptoms are common in viral infections and can make the person very uncomfortable. Muscle aches can affect the entire body, including the back, arms, and legs.

3. Swollen Lymph Nodes

One of the distinctive signs of monkeypox is swollen lymph nodes. These small organs, located in the neck, armpits, and groin, swell in response to the infection. This can cause pain and tenderness in these areas. Swollen lymph nodes help differentiate monkeypox from other diseases like chickenpox or measles.

4. Skin Rash

One of the most recognizable symptoms of monkeypox is a skin rash. It often begins on the face before spreading to other parts of the body, including the hands, feet, and sometimes the genitals. The rash goes through several stages:

• Macules: Flat, red spots first appear on the skin.
• Papules: These spots become raised and firm.
• Vesicles: The papules fill with clear fluid.
• Pustules: The fluid turns into pus, giving the lesions a more swollen appearance.
• Scabs: The pustules eventually dry out and form scabs that fall off.

This process can last from two to four weeks. During this time, the person is contagious, and it’s important to take precautions to prevent spreading the virus to others.

5. General Weakness

People with monkeypox often feel very tired and may struggle to carry out daily activities. This feeling of weakness can persist even after the other symptoms have subsided.

What to Do if You Have Symptoms

If you experience any of these symptoms, especially after contact with an infected person or a potentially infected animal, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional. Rapid diagnosis and appropriate care can prevent complications and limit the spread of the virus.

Conclusion

Monkeypox is a rare but serious disease with clear symptoms such as fever, headaches, swollen lymph nodes, skin rash, and general weakness. Staying informed and vigilant is key to protecting your health and that of those around you. If in doubt, don’t hesitate to seek advice from a healthcare professional.

Did this article help you better understand the symptoms of monkeypox? Share it to raise awareness among your loved ones!

Overview

Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is an infectious disease caused by the mpox virus. It presents with painful rashes, swollen lymph nodes, and fever. While most people fully recover, some may become seriously ill.

Anyone can contract mpox. Transmission occurs through direct contact with an infected person (via touch, kissing, or sexual intercourse), animals (during hunting, skinning, or cooking), contaminated materials (sheets, clothes, needles), or from mother to child during pregnancy. If you are infected with mpox:

• Inform anyone you have recently been in contact with.
• Stay home until all scabs have fallen off and a new layer of skin has formed.
• Cover lesions and wear a well-fitting mask when around others.
• Avoid any physical contact.

Transmission

Mpox is primarily spread from person to person through direct contact with infectious lesions on the skin or mucous membranes, or through respiratory droplets during prolonged contact. It can also be transmitted through contact with contaminated objects like clothing or bedding. Animal-to-human transmission can occur through bites, scratches, or activities such as hunting and preparing animal carcasses. People with multiple sexual partners are at a higher risk of contracting the virus.

Symptoms

Symptoms of mpox usually appear 1 to 21 days after exposure and can last 2 to 4 weeks. Common symptoms include a rash, fever, headaches, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, and low energy. The rash begins as flat sores that evolve into fluid-filled blisters. These lesions can appear on the hands, feet, face, mouth, genitals, or anus.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Mpox is diagnosed through a PCR test, by taking samples directly from skin lesions. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms, healing lesions, and preventing complications. Vaccination is recommended for those at risk, particularly healthcare workers and individuals with multiple sexual partners. Antivirals, such as tecovirimat, are also used in treatment.

Prevention and Care

Infected individuals should remain isolated until all lesions are fully healed. To prevent the spread, it is advised to cover lesions, wear a mask around others, and maintain strict hygiene. Avoid scratching the lesions and regularly disinfect shared spaces.

Outbreaks

Since its emergence in 1970, mpox has been sporadically observed in Central and West Africa. A global outbreak occurred in 2022-2023, primarily, but not exclusively, affecting men who have sex with men. The World Health Organization (WHO) declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern in July 2022 and implemented a strategic plan to contain the virus’s spread.

For more information, consult WHO resources on mpox.