What happens if you get monkeypox?
Monkeypox is a viral infection similar to smallpox, but less severe. It is caused by the monkeypox virus, which is part of the same family of viruses as smallpox, though monkeypox is much milder and far less deadly.
How Does Monkeypox Spread?
Monkeypox spreads primarily through close contact with an infected person’s skin lesions, body fluids, or contaminated materials like bedding. It can also spread through respiratory droplets, but only if people are in close contact for an extended period.
Symptoms of Monkeypox
Monkeypox symptoms and signs can vary, but they generally follow two phases:
- Prodromal phase (early symptoms) and
- Skin eruption phase (rash).
Here’s a breakdown of the most common symptoms:
1. Prodromal Phase (Early Symptoms)
This phase occurs 1-3 days before the rash appears and is marked by flu-like symptoms. These include:
- Fever (a hallmark sign)
- Chills
- Headache
- Muscle aches
- Fatigue
- Swollen lymph nodes (Lymphadenopathy): This key feature differentiates monkeypox from smallpox and is often observed in the neck, underarms, or groin.
2. Skin Eruption Phase (Rash)
The rash usually begins within a few days of the fever and progresses through several stages. It often starts on the face and spreads to other parts of the body, including the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, mouth, and genital areas. The rash undergoes the following stages:
- Macules: Flat, red spots
- Papules: Raised bumps
- Vesicles: Fluid-filled blisters
- Pustules: Pus-filled lesions, which are firm and can be painful
- Scabs: Lesions dry out and eventually fall off
The rash can cover the entire body or be concentrated in certain areas. Lesions may range in number from a few to several thousand, depending on the severity of the infection.
Other Symptoms
- Sore throat and cough (if lesions are present in the mouth or throat)
- Back pain
- Difficulty swallowing
- Mild to severe itching as the lesions heal
- Eye redness or other symptoms if lesions occur near the eyes
Duration and Severity
The illness typically lasts for 2-4 weeks, with symptoms gradually improving as the rash heals. In most cases, the infection is self-limiting, meaning it resolves without the need for specific treatment. However, severe cases can occur, especially in immunocompromised individuals, young children, or those with untreated HIV/AIDS.
Complications
In some cases, monkeypox can lead to complications, including:
- Secondary bacterial infections from scratching the lesions
- Respiratory issues if the virus spreads to the lungs
- Eye infections lead to vision problems if the lesions are near the eyes
While most monkeypox infections are mild, people with weakened immune systems, children, or those with preexisting health conditions may experience more severe symptoms and complications
