Monkeypox FAQs

Ever since its outbreak, monkeypox has been hitting the headlines. With the increase in cases of monkeypox daily, it is difficult not to worry about catching it. There are various questions regarding this disease that has people on edge. To know about the frequently asked questions about monkeypox, keep reading. 

Top 10 Monkeypox Faqs And Their Answers

1. What Is Monkeypox?  

Monkeypox is an infection caused by the monkeypox virus. Monkeypox is a zoonotic disease. Its symptoms are similar to smallpox; however, they are milder. 

2. What Are The Symptoms Of Monkeypox? 

The symptoms of monkeypox include fever, muscle ache, back pain, swollen lymph nodes, chills, exhaustion, and headache. After a few days of infection of monkeypox, a rash usually develops. These rashes begin as flat, red bumps that might be painful. The bumps eventually turn into blisters filled with pus. These blisters then crust over and eventually fall off. This entire process takes around 2 to 4 weeks.

3. Who Can Get Infected By Monkeypox Infection? 

Anyone who comes in close contact with a person infected by monkeypox, especially their body fluids, sores, or rashes, can get monkeypox.

4. What Should I Do If I Have Monkeypox Symptoms? 

Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you see any signs or symptoms of monkeypox. Your healthcare provider will test and treat you accordingly. If you notice any symptoms, isolate yourself and warn your family, friends, and anyone who comes in close contact with you.

5. Can Monkeypox Be Transmitted Sexually? Is Monkeypox A Sexually Transmitted Disease? 

No, monkeypox is not a Sexually Transmitted Disease. Monkeypox usually spreads by skin-to-skin contact, contact with the rash, or blister. During sexual intercourse, the monkeypox virus can be transmitted as it involves skin-to-skin contact. 

6. How Does The Monkeypox Virus Spread?

Monkeypox spreads in the following ways: 

• Direct contact with the sores, blisters, rashes, bodily fluids, or respiratory secretions of an infected person.
• Intimate contact with the infected person, like hugging, kissing, or sex.
• Contact with contaminated belongings like clothes, utensils, and bedding.

7. Can Using Condoms Prevent Monkeypox Infection?

While using condoms is essential to protect and prevent STDs like HIV, chlamydia, syphilis, and gonorrhea, condoms may not be completely effective in preventing monkeypox infection. This is because skin-to-skin contact with the sores, blisters, rashes or body fluids or respiratory secretions of an infected person that can transmit the virus often happens during sexual activity. 

8. How Long Should I Stay In Isolation If I Have Monkeypox? 

A person with monkeypox is to stay isolated for as long as the illness lasts. Typically, the illness lasts for two to four weeks. But it is better to stay isolated until complete recovery. 

9. How Can I Prevent Catching A Monkeypox Infection?
 

You can prevent your chances of contracting the monkeypox infection in the following ways,

• Avoid direct contact with the sores, blisters, rashes or body fluids, or respiratory secretions of an infected person.
• Avoid intimate contact with the infected person, like hugging, kissing, or sex.
• Avoid contact with contaminated belongings like clothes, utensils, and bedding.
• Maintain a distance from the person tested for monkeypox.
• Maintain hygiene by washing your hands using soap and water or a sanitizer. Maintain cleanliness around you and keep the surroundings sanitized.

10. Can Children Get Monkeypox Infection Too? 

Yes, even children are susceptible to contracting the monkeypox infection upon coming in contact with someone infected by this virus. 

The Final Note

Since its outbreak, many people have been afraid of contracting the monkeypox infection. This is also because there is no exact cure for this infection. And since it spreads by direct contact, it becomes even more terrifying. It is important to spread awareness among the public about Monkeypox FAQs and their answers, as it helps in understanding the condition better and taking the right preventive measure.