Monkeypox Emergency: What You Need to Know

In August 2024, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared monkeypox a global public health emergency, highlighting the urgent need for awareness and preventive measures. The infographic above provides a comprehensive overview of monkeypox, including its transmission, incubation period, and symptoms. Here’s a closer look at the key information you need to stay safe.

Transmission

Monkeypox is a zoonotic virus, meaning it can be transmitted from animals to humans. However, human-to-human transmission is also significant and occurs through:

• Direct contact: This includes touching sores, scabs, or body fluids of an infected person. Human-to-human transmission can also happen through intimate contact, such as kissing or sexual activity, and possibly through respiratory droplets.
• Contact with contaminated objects: Items like bedding, clothing, or needles that have been exposed to the virus can also spread the infection.
• Animal-to-human contact: Handling or consuming infected animals, particularly in areas where monkeypox is endemic, poses a risk.
• Vertical transmission: The virus can be transmitted from a pregnant person to their fetus.

Incubation Period

After exposure, the monkeypox virus typically incubates for 7 to 10 days, though it can range from 3 to 21 days. During this time, an infected individual may not show symptoms but could still be contagious. It’s important to monitor for early signs, especially if you have been in a high-risk area or had potential exposure.

Symptoms

Monkeypox symptoms often begin with systemic signs such as fever, chills, and fatigue, followed by a rash that progresses through several stages, as depicted in the infographic. Key symptoms include:

• Fever, chills, and low energy
• Lymphadenopathy (swollen lymph nodes)
• Rash that develops into pustules and scabs, primarily on the face, palms, soles, and sometimes on the genital area
• Sore throat, headaches, and muscle pain
• Gastrointestinal symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea

Symptoms generally last 2 to 4 weeks and can be self-limiting, but they may be more severe in children, pregnant women, and immunocompromised individuals.

Treatment and Prevention

Currently, there is no specific treatment for monkeypox, but antiviral medications designed for smallpox, such as tecovirimat, may be effective. Vaccination against smallpox provides some cross-protection, and in areas experiencing outbreaks, vaccination campaigns are being implemented.

High-Risk Areas

Monkeypox is endemic in Central and West Africa, but recent outbreaks have spread to non-endemic regions, including North America, Europe, and Asia. International travelers should be cautious, especially when visiting regions with active outbreaks.

Destinations Travel Clinic is dedicated to helping travelers stay informed and protected. We provide up-to-date travel health advice and vaccinations to ensure you’re prepared for any health risks you might encounter on your journey.

Disclaimer

The medical information on this site is provided as an information resource only and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. This information does not substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment. Please do not initiate, modify, or discontinue any treatment, medication, or supplement solely based on this information. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider first. Full Disclaimer