Monkeypox: Symptoms, Treatment and Vaccines

Unlike COVID-19, which spreads through the air, monkeypox is a disease spread by close skin-to-skin contact with an infected person. The monkeypox virus is in the same family as the smallpox virus, meaning symptoms can be very similar. People with monkeypox will typically get a rash around the genitals and anus. It can also be found on other areas like hands, feet, face, or mouth.

Other symptoms of Monkeypox could include:

• Fever
• Chills
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Exhaustion
• Muscle aches and backache
• Headache
• Respiratory symptoms (sore throat, nasal congestion, cough)

Monkeypox symptoms typically start within three weeks of exposure to the virus. Monkeypox can be spread from the time symptoms start until all scabs have fallen off, and a fresh layer of skin has formed. It typically lasts 2-4 weeks.

What Should I Do if I Think I Have Monkeypox?

Monkeypox is present in our community (view the CDC’s case map here). If you have close contact with a monkeypox patient or develop symptoms consistent with monkeypox, seek medical attention through your primary care provider, an urgent care or your local health department.

• Use gauze or bandages to cover the rash to limit the spread.
• Don’t scratch or attempt to pop lesions. This can spread the virus to other parts of the body.
• Don’t shave areas with the rash.
• Keep skin lesions/rash clean, except if showering or bathing.
• Wash hands frequently with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Wear gloves when touching surfaces in shared spaces.

Vaccines

JYNNEOS, the same vaccine used to protect against smallpox, has been approved for prevention of monkeypox. It is the primary vaccine in use during the U.S. outbreak. Contact your provider to make sure this vaccine is right for you.

Source: Monkeypox | Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC.gov)