What is Monkeypox?
Monkeypox is a rare, viral infection that does not usually cause serious illness. However, it can result in hospitalization or death.
What are the symptoms of monkeypox?
- Rashes, bumps, or blisters that may appear on or around the genitals or in other areas such as your hands, feet, chest, or face. These may be similar in appearance to common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and other common skin ailments like poison ivy.
- Flu-like symptoms, such as fever, headache, muscle aches, chills, and fatigue. These symptoms may occur before or after the rash appears, or not at all.
How does monkeypox spread?
Monkeypox is spread through close, physical contact between individuals. This includes:
- Direct contact with monkeypox sores or rashes on an individual who has monkeypox.
- Respiratory droplets or oral fluids from someone with monkeypox, particularly for those who have close contact with someone or are around them for a long period of time.
- It can also be spread through contact with objects or fabrics (e.g., clothing, bedding, towels) that have been used by someone with monkeypox.