What Is Monkeypox?
The monkeypox virus causes an infectious disease that causes a rash and flu-like symptoms. Monkeypox is currently spreading throughout the world and within the United States, primarily
through close contact with an infected person, but has historically been transmitted to humans through contact with an infected animal. Monkeypox belongs to the same virus family as the Variola virus, which causes smallpox. It causes symptoms similar to smallpox but is less severe, and it is rarely fatal. There are two types of monkeypox virus that are endemic in Africa: one from Central Africa and one from West Africa. The West African strain is responsible for the 2022 global outbreak, which typically causes less severe disease.
As of December 2, 2022, there were 1,459 confirmed cases of monkeypox in Canada. (Source:https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/monkeypox/outbreak-update. html )
Monkeypox Symptoms
Monkeypox can cause a variety of symptoms. While some people have milder symptoms, others may develop more serious illnesses and require hospitalization. Pregnant women, children, and people with compromised immune systems are at a higher risk
The most common monkeypox symptoms were identified in 2022.
● Chills● Exhaustion and low energy
● Fever
● Headache
● Muscle aches and backache
● Swollen lymph
These symptoms are then typically followed by the appearance of a rash that may last two to three weeks. The rash can appear on the face, palms of hands, soles of feet, groin, genital, and/or anal regions. It can also be found in the mouth, throat, anus, or vagina, as well as in the eyes. The rash, which can look similar to pimples or blisters, can be painful. The number of sores can range between one and thousands. Sores on the skin begin flat, then fill with liquid before crusting over, drying up, and falling off, leaving a fresh layer of skin beneath.
There are currently no treatments available for monkeypox infection. However, because monkeypox and smallpox viruses are so similar, therapies like antiviral drugs and immune globulin developed to protect against smallpox may be used to treat monkeypox virus infections, particularly in people with severe symptoms. Symptoms usually resolve on their own or with supportive care, such as pain or fever medication. People are infectious until all sores have crusted over, scabs have fallen off, and a new layer of skin has formed beneath.
Anyone having symptoms of monkeypox or who has had contact with someone who has monkeypox can contact or visit Pharmedic Pharmacy for advice.