Monkeypox is a rare viral disease that is similar to smallpox and is endemic to Central and West Africa. The disease is caused by the monkeypox virus, which belongs to the Orthopoxvirus family of viruses. In humans, monkeypox causes a rash that spreads all over the body and may be accompanied by fever, headache, muscle aches, and chills. While monkeypox is generally a mild disease, severe cases can occur, particularly in people with weakened immune systems.
Monkeypox is primarily a disease of animals, particularly rodents and monkeys, and is transmitted to humans through contact with infected animals or their bodily fluids. The disease can also be spread from person to person, although this is less common. Since its discovery in 1958, monkeypox has been reported in a number of African countries, including Cameroon, the Central African Republic, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Nigeria.
In recent years, monkeypox has also been detected outside of Africa, including in the United States. The first case of monkeypox in the US was reported in 2003 in a person who had recently returned from Nigeria. Since then, there have been several other cases of monkeypox in the US, most of which were also linked to travel to countries where the disease is endemic.
Symptoms
The symptoms of monkeypox in humans typically appear within 5 to 21 days after infection and start with a fever, headache, muscle aches, and fatigue. Within a few days, a rash develops, which usually begins on the face and then spreads to other parts of the body. The rash progresses to become pustular, which means it is filled with fluid, and can be accompanied by severe itching. The rash and other symptoms usually last for 2 to 4 weeks.
While monkeypox is generally a mild disease, severe cases can occur, particularly in people with weakened immune systems. Complications of monkeypox can include secondary bacterial infections, pneumonia, and encephalitis, which is inflammation of the brain. People who are at higher risk of severe disease include those with weakened immune systems, such as people with HIV/AIDS or those who are taking immunosuppressive medications.
Treatment
There is no specific treatment for monkeypox, although antiviral drugs may be used in severe cases. The disease is generally managed through supportive care, such as keeping the patient hydrated, controlling their fever, and treating any secondary infections. Vaccination against smallpox can also provide some protection against monkeypox, as the two diseases are closely related.