What is monkeypox? The next COVID-19? A new deadly virus? A lab-made monstrosity? The beginning of another years long quarantine? Actually, it’s none of the above. Monkeypox, also shortened to mpox, is a virus from the Orthopoxvirus family, which is often characterized by a bumpy rash, like smallpox or cowpox. One can contract it by being in close contact with anyone infected with monkeypox. It’s also zoonotic, meaning that it can spread between people and animals, specifically monkeys, rodents, and possibly dogs.
There are two types of monkeypox, clade I and clade I. The former is historically found in Central Africa and often causes more severe symptoms and higher fatality rates. The latter is mainly found in West Africa, and is associated with more mild symptoms, although a subtype of clade II is responsible for the outbreak in 2022.
Monkeypox goes through several stages, starting with the incubation period. At this time, the infected individual does not have symptoms nor are they contagious, and this lasts for around 1-2 weeks. Next comes the prodrome, the earliest symptoms of monkeypox. A person with monkeypox may become feverish and have flu-like symptoms, such as a fever, sore throat, headaches, faintness. It also often includes swollen lymph nodes (lymphadenopathy), as the immune system fights off the germy invader. People are generally contagious and should be isolated at this time. The most notable symptom, however, is a rash that often begins on the face before spreading to the palms, soles, and genital area. These lesions will start out flat before growing raised and starting to swell with fluid, until they at last crust and scab over. Until all the scabs have fallen off and new skin has grown in its place, a person is contagious. It’s important to know that the severity of monkeypox differs from person to person, and some may not develop a rash at all.
Monkeypox isn’t a new occurrence, and it only attracted mass attention when it started appearing outside of countries where it was considered endemic. This virus was first identified in 1958 in a colony of research monkeys in a Danish laboratory, hence the name “monkeypox”. The first human case occurred in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and other cases in humans were generally reported in West and Central Africa. However, on May 6th 2022, monkeypox cases followed travel trips to Europe and North America, rather than Central and West Africa where it’s considered endemic. That same month, the World Health Organization declared monkeypox to be a public health emergency of international concern. By the following year, there were over 80,000 cases through 112 counties.
There are two vaccines for Monkeypox available in the United States: JYNNEOS® and ACAM200. The JYNNEOS® vaccine (only for those ages 18 and above) is often preferred for monkeypox prevention, and is recommended to those who have been in contact with the virus, such as laboratory workers, emergency responders and caretakers, as well as those knowingly at risk of contracting it in the future. It is a two dose vaccine received four weeks apart, although those vaccinated should still take steps to protect themselves around individuals with monkeypox. ACAM200 has considerably harsher side effects, like inflammation and swelling of heart tissues, so JYNNEOS® is generally endorsed.
According to the Center for Disease Control, if you have monkeypox, use bandages or other coverings over lesions to limit the spread and wear a mask if in contact with others. Avoid touching or crossing any rashes and ensure that you eat healthily and hydrate. Alert those that you have recently been in close proximity with to keep everyone as aware as possible.
