Monkeypox is a viral infection that causes fever, swollen lymph nodes, and a painful rash. While it was once considered rare and confined to Central and West Africa, recent outbreaks have spread it worldwide. Unlike its cousin smallpox, monkeypox is less deadly, but it can still cause severe illness, scarring, and long-term complications.
The 2022 global outbreak showed that monkeypox is not just an African disease—it can spread through close contact, sexual activity, and contaminated objects.
How Does Monkeypox Spread?
Monkeypox spreads primarily through close physical contact, but it can also be transmitted through objects and, in rare cases, respiratory droplets.
Main Transmission Routes:
✅ Skin-to-skin contact with rashes, sores, or scabs (most common).
✅ Sexual contact—monkeypox can be transmitted through intimate encounters.
✅ Touching contaminated clothing, bedding, or towels used by an infected person.
✅ Respiratory droplets from prolonged face-to-face contact (less common).
✅ Animal-to-human transmission from handling infected animals (rodents, monkeys).
Unlike COVID-19, monkeypox does not spread easily through casual interactions. However, outbreaks have shown that prolonged skin contact or shared personal items increase the risk.
What Happens If You Get Monkeypox?
Monkeypox symptoms appear 5–21 days after exposure and last 2–4 weeks.
Early Symptoms (First 1–5 Days):
- Fever, chills, and muscle aches.
- Swollen lymph nodes (a key sign differentiating it from chickenpox).
- Headache and extreme fatigue.
Rash & Skin Lesions (Day 5–21):
- Painful, pus-filled blisters appear on the face, hands, genitals, or body.
- Lesions start as flat spots, turn into pustules, then scab over.
- Severe itching and discomfort as the rash heals.
Unlike chickenpox, monkeypox lesions progress more slowly and may leave scars.
Who Is Most at Risk?
✅ People with close contact with infected individuals (partners, caregivers).
✅ Sexually active individuals with multiple partners (especially in outbreak zones).
✅ Healthcare workers treating monkeypox patients.
✅ Immunocompromised individuals (HIV, organ transplants).
✅ People in endemic regions or those handling infected animals.
Is Monkeypox Dangerous?
Most cases of monkeypox resolve without severe complications, but some people experience:
⚠️ Severe pain and skin infections.
⚠️ Permanent scarring from deep skin lesions.
⚠️ Lung infections, vision loss (if blisters appear near the eyes).
⚠️ In rare cases, organ damage and death (historically 1–10% fatality rate in African outbreaks, but lower in recent global cases).
How Is Monkeypox Diagnosed?
Doctors diagnose monkeypox using:
✅ PCR Test – Detects the virus from skin lesions or throat swabs.
✅ Blood tests for antibodies – Identifies past exposure.
✅ Biopsy of skin lesions – Rarely used but can confirm diagnosis.
Since monkeypox symptoms mimic chickenpox, syphilis, or herpes, proper testing is crucial.
Is There a Treatment for Monkeypox?
There is no specific cure, but supportive care and antivirals can help manage symptoms.
✅ Pain relievers (ibuprofen, acetaminophen) – Reduce fever and discomfort.
✅ Antiviral medications (Tecovirimat / Tpoxx) – Used for severe cases.
✅ Topical creams (calamine, antihistamines) – Help relieve itching.
✅ Hydration & rest – Speeds up recovery.
Can Monkeypox Be Prevented?
✅ Vaccination:
- The Jynneos (Imvamune) vaccine is effective for prevention.
- People at high risk (health workers, those exposed) can get it.
- Smallpox vaccines also offer protection due to virus similarities.
✅ Avoid close contact with infected individuals or their belongings.
✅ Practice safe sex – Condoms alone don’t prevent monkeypox, but limiting partners reduces risk.
✅ Regular handwashing – Helps prevent indirect spread.
Could Monkeypox Become a Pandemic?
Monkeypox is not highly contagious like COVID-19, making a global pandemic unlikely. However, localized outbreaks could continue, especially in populations with high skin-to-skin contact.
Myths vs. Facts
❌ “Monkeypox only spreads through monkeys.”
✅ Rodents are the primary carriers in Africa; human-to-human transmission is now more common.
❌ “Only men who have sex with men get monkeypox.”
✅ Anyone can get monkeypox through close contact, though early outbreaks affected this group more.
❌ “Monkeypox is just like smallpox.”
✅ Monkeypox is less severe and less deadly than smallpox.
❌ “If you’ve had chickenpox, you’re immune to monkeypox.”
✅ No, they are different viruses. Only the smallpox vaccine offers some protection.
Final Thoughts
Monkeypox is a serious but preventable viral infection. While most cases are mild, the painful rash, potential scarring, and long recovery time make prevention essential.
If you develop unexplained blisters, fever, or swollen lymph nodes, seek medical attention and testing. Vaccination and safe hygiene practices remain the best ways to stay protected.
Want to Learn More?
- CDC – Monkeypox – Global outbreak updates and prevention tips.
- WHO – Monkeypox – Information on vaccines and transmission.
- NIH – Monkeypox Research – Latest studies on treatment and prevention.