Globe Enhances Connectivity in Bogo City with New Cell Sites

Monkeypox (MPX), formerly known as monkeypox, is a disease caused by infection with the monkeypox virus. With an incubation period of 3 to 17 days, it is crucial to stay informed about its symptoms, transmission, and preventive measures.

What is Monkeypox?

Monkeypox is a viral zoonotic disease, meaning it can spread from animals to humans. It is caused by the monkeypox virus, which belongs to the Orthopoxvirus genus. The disease was first discovered in 1958 when two outbreaks of a pox-like disease occurred in colonies of monkeys kept for research, hence the name “monkeypox.”

Symptoms of Monkeypox

Monkeypox symptoms typically appear in stages:

1. Flu-like Symptoms:

   • Fever
   • Headache
   • Muscle aches
   • Backache
   • Swollen lymph nodes
   • Chills
   • Exhaustion

2. Rash:

   • The rash usually begins within 1 to 3 days after the appearance of fever.
   • It starts on the face and then spreads to other parts of the body.
   • The rash goes through different stages before finally forming a scab, which later falls off.

How Does Monkeypox Spread?

Monkeypox can spread through:

1. Direct Contact:

   • With the blood, bodily fluids, or cutaneous or mucosal lesions of infected animals.
   • Human-to-human transmission can occur through close contact with respiratory secretions, skin lesions of an infected person, or recently contaminated objects.

2. Animal-to-Human Transmission:

   • Occurs through a bite or scratch, bush meat preparation, direct contact with body fluids or lesion material, or indirect contact with lesion material, such as through contaminated bedding.

Preventive Measures

To prevent monkeypox infection, follow these guidelines:

1. Avoid Contact with Animals:

   • Especially those that could harbor the virus, such as rodents and primates.
   • Avoid contact with any materials, such as bedding, that has been in contact with a sick animal.

2. Practice Good Hygiene:

   • Wash your hands regularly with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
   • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

3. Use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

   • Healthcare workers should use appropriate PPE when caring for patients with suspected or confirmed monkeypox.

4. Isolation:

   • Isolate infected patients from others who could be at risk for infection.

What to Do If Exposed

If you believe you have been exposed to monkeypox:

1. Seek Medical Attention:

   • Contact a healthcare provider immediately.
   • Inform them about your symptoms and any potential exposure to the virus.

2. Self-Isolate:

   • Stay at home and avoid contact with others until you have been evaluated by a healthcare provider.

3. Follow Public Health Guidelines:

   • Adhere to any recommendations or guidelines provided by public health authorities.

Conclusion

Staying informed about monkeypox, recognizing its symptoms, understanding how it spreads, and taking preventive measures are crucial steps in protecting yourself and others from this disease. Always follow health advisories and consult healthcare professionals if you suspect exposure or infection.