Monkeypox, now known as mpox, is a rare disease caused by a virus. It causes flu-like symptoms and a rash similar to that caused by smallpox, which is caused by a related virus.
Monkeypox is endemic in parts of Africa, but sometimes, it spreads to other parts of the world. This is called an ‘outbreak’.
Since 2022, several countries around the world, including the US and UK, have reported a small number of cases.
How does monkeypox spread?
Monkeypox is usually spread via skin-to-skin contact. The disease causes a rash which blisters and then crusts. If you touch someone with a monkeypox rash, then you may be at risk of catching mpox. The mpox virus can also be spread through bodily fluids.
How can monkeypox be avoided?
If you travel to an area with an mpox outbreak, you should always:
- Avoid skin-to-skin contact with anyone with mpox or with a rash that looks like mpox
- Avoid sharing any items with someone who has mpox
- Wash your hands regularly
What are the symptoms of monkeypox?
As well as a rash, monkeypox can cause fever, chills, muscle aches, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes and headache.
The symptoms of mpox are different for everyone – some may only have a rash, while others may get flu-like symptoms but no rash at all.
An mpox rash can appear as sores on the hands, feet, face, mouth, or genital area. The rash goes through several stages, which last a few weeks. It often starts as red, flat bumps which can be painful. These bumps then rise and turn into blisters filled with pus. The blisters then crust over and fall off.
What causes monkeypox?
Monkeypox is caused by infection with the monkeypox virus, known as Orthopoxvirus monkeypox.
To diagnose mpox, your doctor will swab your sores to test for the monkeypox virus.
If mpox is confirmed, you may be given antiviral drugs or an antibody treatment. The disease usually lasts several weeks, and you will be closely monitored until the rash goes.
There are two subtypes of mpox, and the type causing the global outbreaks (clade II mpox) is rarely fatal.
Can I be vaccinated against mpox?
There is a vaccine against mpox, but it is usually only given to people who have been exposed to the virus. If you are a close contact of someone who's been diagnosed with mpox, you should get vaccinated as soon as possible. You should be vaccinated if you were exposed less than 14 days ago, ideally within 4 days, for the best chance to prevent the disease or to make it less severe if you do get mpox.
While the term ‘outbreak’ can be alarming, cases of monkeypox in the region are extremely rare.
If you have any concerns, always talk to your doctor.