With monkeypox cases becoming more frequent in the state of Wisconsin, it is leaving many people wondering what monkeypox even is.
Frequently asked questions include, what is monkeypox, what are the symptoms, how could I catch this, what to do if I have monkeypox?
Thanks to the Shawano-Menominee Counties Health Department, answers to these questions will be provided here.
What Is Monkeypox?
Monkeypox is a rare disease caused by infection with the monkeypox virus. It is part of the same family of viruses that cause smallpox.
Monkeypox was discovered in 1958 when two outbreaks of a pox-like disease occurred in colonies of monkeys kept for research. Despite being named "monkeypox", the source of the disease remains unknown.
What are the symptoms of Monkeypox?
Starting symptoms of monkeypox can look like symptoms of a cold, with a rash that can look like pimples or blisters forming shortly after symptoms start.
Main symptoms include
- Fever
- Headache
- Muscle and back aches
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Chills
- Exhaustion
- Respiratory symptoms (sore throat, nasal congestion or cough)
- Rash
The rash can look like pimples or blisters on the face, inside the mouth and on other parts of the body like the hands, feet, chest or private areas.
- The rash goes through different stages before healing completely
- The rash and illness typically last 2-4 weeks
- Sometimes people will only experience rash symptoms
- Symptoms usually appear one to two weeks after infection.
How could I catch Monkeypox?
It should be noted that monkeypox is not easily spread between people, however, anyone in close contact with a person that has monkeypox can get infected and should take steps to protect themselves.
People who do not have monkeypox symptoms cannot spread the virus.
Ways that the virus can be spread include
- Direct contact with the infectious rash, scabs or body fluids
- Respiratory secretions during prolonged, face-to-face contact or during intimate physical contact
- Touching items that previously touched the infectious rash or body fluids
- Being scratched or bitten by an animal that is infected with monkeypox
Monkeypox can spread from the time symptoms start until the rash has fully healed and a fresh layer of skin has formed. The illness typically lasts 2-4 weeks.
What to do if I think I have Monkeypox
Anyone that believes they have been in contact with Monkeypox or has Monkeypox should immediately see a healthcare provider.
A test would be administered to determine if a person is positive with the illness.
Until test results are confirmed, stay isolated and observe other prevention practices until your rash has healed, all scabs have fallen off, and a fresh layer of intact skin has formed. For more information about Isolation and Infection Control, click here.
Further steps needed if you think you have monkeypox include
- Avoid close contact (including physical contact) with others
- Avoid close contact with pets or other animals
- Remain isolated if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms, including sore throat, nasal congestion or cough
- Only go out to see a healthcare provider or in emergency situations
If you should have to leave isolation for any reason, you should cover the rash and wear a well-fitting mask.
For more information about Monkeypox, visit the CDC website at cdc.gov.
