In response to the growing outbreak of monkeypox, the World Health Organization in late July declared the virus a public health emergency – its highest alert level. The United States soon followed and declared the outbreak a public health emergency in early August.
The Partnership to Fight Infectious Disease (PFID) has sought to serve as a resource for credible information so we are sharing the latest information about monkeypox and available prevention and treatment from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Infectious Disease Society of America (IDSA).
What is Monkeypox?
According to the CDC, monkeypox is a rare disease caused by the monkeypox virus, which is part of the same family of viruses that cause smallpox. Its symptoms are similar to yet milder than smallpox.
Who Can Develop Monkeypox?
Anyone. People at most risk are those who have had close contact with an infected person, according to IDSA. The infectious period begins when the rash, sores or scabs are present on the body.
What are Some Signs and Symptoms?
Some signs and symptoms can include a rash, sores or scabs. They can be located on, near or inside the genitals or anus, but sometimes on other areas like hands, feet, chest, face or inside the mouth. Other symptoms include fever, chills, swollen lymph nodes, exhaustion, muscle aches and backache, headache and/or respiratory symptoms.
How is Monkeypox Prevented or Treated?
The CDC recommends getting vaccinated if a person was exposed to monkeypox or at a higher risk of being exposed to monkeypox. Anyone with symptoms or questions should talk with and consult their healthcare provider.
Additional Resources
CDC monkeypox page: https://www.cdc.gov/poxvirus/monkeypox/index.html
WHO monkeypox key facts: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/monkeypox
IDSA monkeypox fact sheet: https://www.idsociety.org/public-health/monkeypox/