7 Major Symptoms Of Monkeypox To Know

Monkeypox is a rare viral disease that belongs to the Orthopoxvirus family, which also includes smallpox and cowpox. The disease was first identified in 1958 when outbreaks occurred in monkeys kept for research, hence the name "monkeypox." Although primarily affecting animals, monkeypox can be transmitted to humans, leading to sporadic outbreaks, primarily in Central and West Africa.

The virus is zoonotic, meaning it can be transmitted from animals to humans. The natural reservoir of monkeypox is believed to be wild animals, including rodents and primates. Human infections typically result from direct contact with the blood, bodily fluids, or lesions of infected animals, as well as through human-to-human transmission in certain circumstances.

Monkeypox shares similarities with smallpox in terms of clinical presentation, but it is generally less severe. The symptoms include fever, headache, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, and a characteristic skin rash that progresses to pustules. While human monkeypox cases are rare, they can pose a public health concern due to the potential for person-to-person transmission.

Preventive measures include avoiding contact with animals that may harbor the virus, practicing good hygiene, and implementing appropriate infection control measures in healthcare settings. Although there is no specific antiviral treatment for monkeypox, supportive care and vaccination efforts in some regions have been employed to control outbreaks and limit the spread of the disease.

Monkeypox symptoms

# Fever: The illness often begins with a fever, which may be accompanied by chills.

# Headache: Patients with monkeypox may experience headaches as one of the early symptoms.

# Muscle aches and fatigue: Generalized muscle aches and fatigue are common during the early stages of monkeypox infection.

# Swollen lymph nodes: Swollen and tender lymph nodes (lymphadenopathy) are often seen, especially in the groin, neck, and armpit regions.

# Skin rash: A characteristic rash usually develops, often starting on the face and then spreading to other parts of the body. The rash progresses to pustules, which can become crusty and eventually fall off.

# Lesions and pox-like sores: The rash is typically characterized by pox-like lesions that may appear all over the body, resembling those seen in smallpox. However, the lesions in monkeypox are usually less severe.

# Sore throat: Some individuals may experience a sore throat, especially during the early stages of the illness.