Monkeypox is a rare infection. It is caused by the monkeypox virus. Monkeypox symptoms are similar to smallpox symptoms however relatively milder, and monkeypox is rarely fatal. Monkeypox is not related to chickenpox.
Monkeypox was identified in 1958 when two outbreaks of a pox-like condition occurred in colonies of monkeys kept for research. Despite being called “monkeypox,” the origin of the infection remains unrecognized. Nevertheless, African rodents and non-human primates like monkeys might carry the virus and infect people.
The first human case of monkeypox was identified in the year 1970. Before the 2022 outbreak, monkeypox had been noted in people in several central and western African nations. Earlier, almost all monkeypox cases in people outside of Africa were related to international travel to countries where the disease typically occurs or through imported animals.
Monkeypox symptoms
Individuals with monkeypox get a rash that may be found on or near the genitals (penis, testicles, labia, and vagina) or anus (butthole) and could be on other areas like the hands, feet, chest, face, or mouth.
- The rash will pass through different stages, including scabs, before healing
- The rash can initially look like pimples or blisters and may be itchy or painful.
Other symptoms of monkeypox can include:
- Fever
- Chills
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Exhaustion
- Muscle aches and backache
- Headache
- Respiratory symptoms (e.g. sore throat, nasal congestion, or cough)
Patients usually experience all or some of the symptoms
- People may have flu-like symptoms before the rash.
- Some people may get a rash first, followed by other symptoms.
- Others only experience a rash.
How long do monkeypox symptoms last?
Monkeypox symptoms usually start 3 weeks after exposure to the virus. If the individual has flu-like symptoms, they will usually develop a rash after 1-4 days.
Monkeypox can spread from the time symptoms begin until the rash has healed, all scabs have fallen off, and a fresh layer of skin has formed. The illness typically lasts 2-4 weeks.
If You notice a New or Unexplained Rash or Other Symptoms…
- Avoid close contact, including sex or being close with anyone, until you have been checked out by a healthcare provider.
- When you see a doctor or healthcare provider, always wear a mask.
Diagnosis
If monkeypox is suspected, health workers should collect a suitable sample and have it transported safely to a lab with reasonable precautions. Confirmation of monkeypox diagnosis depends on the type and quality of the sample and the type of laboratory test. Thus, specimens should be packaged and shipped in accordance with national and international guidelines. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is the preferred lab test due to its accuracy and sensitivity. Appropriate diagnostic samples for monkeypox are from skin lesions including the roof or fluid from vesicles and pustules, and dry crusts. Where feasible, a biopsy is an option. Lesion samples must be stored in a dry, sterile tube and kept in cold storage. PCR blood tests are usually inconclusive due to the short duration of viremia relative to the timing of specimen collection after symptoms begin and should not be routinely collected from patients.
To interpret test results appropriately, patient information must be provided with the specimens including
- date of onset of fever,
- date of onset of rash,
- date of specimen collection,
- current status of the individual
- stage of rash, and
- age of the patient
If you feel you have been exposed to this virus, kindly contact IQ Diagnostics for more information.