Don't panic! A guide to Mpox (Monkeypox) diagnosis and treatment.

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Protect yourself from Mpox (Monkeypox): Symptoms, transmission, prevention tips

Monkeypox, now officially known as Mpox, is a zoonotic viral infection that can spread from animals to humans and from person to person. First identified in 1958 among laboratory monkeys, this virus shares similarities with smallpox, another member of the Orthopoxvirus genus.

However, Mpox typically causes a milder illness with a lower mortality rate. Despite its relative rarity, the virus has gained increased attention due to recent outbreaks in various parts of the world, highlighting the need for awareness and understanding of its transmission, symptoms, and preventive measures.

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As global travel and climate change influence the spread of infectious diseases, Mpox serves as a reminder of the importance of public health preparedness and the ongoing challenges in controlling emerging viral threats.

The latest updates on Mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) reveal that the disease continues to be a public health concern in various parts of the world. Notably, East and Central Africa are experiencing significant outbreaks. For example, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has reported over 14,000 cases and 511 deaths since the beginning of 2024.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared a public health emergency in multiple countries, including Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda, where Mpox has surfaced for the first time.

Globally, the virus remains present, with ongoing transmissions recorded in several regions. Africa is currently the most affected, followed by the Americas, Europe, and the Western Pacific. The risk of the virus spreading to places like the United States is considered low, but monitoring continues, especially through wastewater sampling to detect any potential presence of the virus.

Despite the low level of global transmission outside Africa, the situation in countries like the DRC remains severe, and there is a growing concern about the virus spreading further within the continent and potentially beyond (UN News) (Health Infobase Canada) (CDC).

Symptoms of Mpox

Common symptoms of Mpox include:

Fever
Headache
Muscle aches
Backache
Chills
Fatigue
Swollen lymph nodes
A rash that can look like pimples or blisters

The rash often begins on the face and then spreads to other parts of the body. It goes through several stages, including scabs, before healing.

How Mpox spreads

Mpox can spread through:

Close contact: Skin-to-skin contact, kissing, sex

Respiratory droplets: Droplets from an infected person’s nose or mouth can spread the virus, but this is thought to be less common

Contact with contaminated materials: Sharing clothing, bedding, or towels with an infected person

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Treatment and prevention

While there is no specific treatment for Mpox, most people recover on their own within a few weeks. Supportive care, such as managing pain and fever, can help alleviate symptoms.

Prevention measures include:

Avoiding close contact with people who have a rash that looks like Mpox
Practising good hand hygiene
Using condoms during sex
Getting vaccinated if you are at high risk

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What to do if you think you have been exposed to Monkeypox

If you think you have been exposed to Mpox (formerly known as Monkeypox), it’s important to take the following steps to protect yourself and others:

1. Isolate yourself

To prevent potential spread, avoid close contact with others, especially those who are at high risk, such as immunocompromised individuals, pregnant women, and young children. Stay home and isolate in a separate room if possible.

2. Monitor symptoms

Watch for symptoms that typically appear within 5 to 21 days after exposure. These can include fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, swollen lymph nodes, chills, and exhaustion, followed by a rash that progresses through several stages before crusting over.

3. Seek medical advice

Contact a healthcare provider, preferably through telehealth services like PlushCare, to discuss your exposure and symptoms. A healthcare professional can advise you on the next steps, including testing and treatment. They may also recommend antiviral treatments or vaccination, especially if you are at high risk of severe disease.

4. Get tested

If your healthcare provider advises, get tested for Mpox. Testing is typically done by taking a sample from one of the lesions (if present) and can confirm the diagnosis.

5. Notify close contacts

Inform anyone you’ve been in close contact with recently, as they may also need to monitor for symptoms and take precautions.

6. Follow public health guidance

Stay updated with recommendations from public health authorities like the CDC or WHO. They provide guidance on isolation duration and other preventive measures.

7. Practise good hygiene

Regularly wash your hands, avoid touching your face, and disinfect surfaces that may have come into contact with the virus. If you have a rash, cover it with clothing or a bandage to reduce the risk of spreading the virus.

By following these steps, you can help manage your health and reduce the risk of spreading Mpox to others (UN News) (CDC).

Protect yourself from Mpox (Monkeypox): Symptoms, transmission, prevention tips 8

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Monkeypox concerns? PlushCare can help

PlushCare is a telehealth service that makes accessing medical care more convenient by offering virtual consultations with board-certified doctors. Whether you need a diagnosis, treatment, or ongoing management of a medical condition, PlushCare connects you with healthcare professionals through video calls, allowing you to receive quality care from the comfort of your home.

With PlushCare, you can discuss your symptoms with a physician who can diagnose common conditions like infections, allergies, chronic illnesses, and mental health issues. The platform’s doctors can prescribe medications, order lab tests, and provide treatment plans tailored to your needs. Additionally, PlushCare offers ongoing care, so you can follow up with the same doctor for continuity in your treatment, ensuring a personalised and consistent healthcare experience.

PlushCare is particularly beneficial for those with busy schedules, limited access to in-person healthcare, or who prefer the convenience of receiving medical advice without having to visit a clinic. It also provides access to mental health services, including therapy and prescription management for conditions like anxiety and depression.

This service is covered by many insurance plans, making it an accessible option for a wide range of patients. PlushCare’s user-friendly app and website make it easy to book appointments, manage prescriptions, and communicate with your healthcare provider, streamlining the entire process of receiving medical care.

Important note: The global outbreak of Monkeypox in 2022 primarily affected people who had close or intimate contact with others. However, anyone can get Mpox.

For more detailed information, please refer to the following reliable sources: