A growing number of mpox (monkeypox) cases has prompted health officials to issue a public health alert, warning of the infectious disease’s potential to spread through various means.
Mpox, caused by the monkeypox virus, can lead to severe symptoms, including a painful rash, enlarged lymph nodes, and fever. While most individuals recover fully, some may experience severe illness.
The virus can spread through:
– Direct contact with infected individuals, including touch, kissing, or sex
– Handling infected animals, such as during hunting, skinning, or cooking
– Contaminated materials, like sheets, clothes, or needles
– Pregnant individuals, who can pass the virus to their unborn baby
Health officials urge those infected to:
– Notify recent close contacts
– Self-isolate until all scabs fall off and new skin forms
– Cover lesions and wear a well-fitting mask around others Symptoms typically appear within 1-21 days after exposure and last 2-4 weeks, but may persist longer in individuals with weakened immune systems.
Common symptoms include:
– Rash
– Fever
– Sore throat
– Headache
– Muscle aches
– Back pain
– Low energy
– Swollen lymph nodes
The rash begins as a flat sore, developing into a blister filled with liquid, which may be itchy or painful.
As the rash heals, lesions dry up, crust over, and fall off.
Some individuals may experience a single lesion, while others may have hundreds.
The public is advised to remain vigilant and take precautions to prevent the spread of mpox.
