March 3rd, 2023
Monkeypox is a rare but potentially serious viral disease that can cause symptoms similar to those of smallpox. The disease is primarily found in the rainforest regions of Central and West Africa, where it is transmitted from animals to humans.
With the recent increase in cases outside of Africa, it’s more important than ever to know how to protect yourself against monkeypox. In this article, we’ll cover some important steps you can take to reduce your risk of contracting the disease.
Monkeypox is primarily transmitted through contact with infected animals, particularly rodents like rats, squirrels, and monkeys. The virus can also spread from human to human through close contact with bodily fluids such as blood, semen, saliva, sweat, respiratory droplets, or contact with contaminated materials, with the incubation period of monkeypox ranging from 5 to 21 days, after which symptoms can appear suddenly.
The virus is most contagious during the first few days of illness, but it can also be transmitted during the later stages of the disease. It is important to take precautions to avoid contact with infected individuals and to practice good hygiene to prevent the spread of the virus.
It is also important to note that human-to-human transmission of monkeypox is not as efficient as other viral diseases, such as measles or influenza. Nonetheless, it is still important to take precautions to prevent the spread of the virus.
Symptoms of monkeypox typically appear within 5 to 21 days after exposure and include fever, headache, muscle aches, and a rash that often spreads to the palms and soles of the feet. While the disease is generally less severe than smallpox, it can still cause serious health complications.
There are several steps you can take to protect yourself against monkeypox, including:
Practice good hygiene
Good hygiene is the cornerstone of disease prevention, and monkeypox is no exception. To protect yourself from monkeypox:
Avoid contact with animals that may carry the virus
To protect yourself from the virus:
Use personal protective equipment
If you work with animals that may carry the virus, wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, goggles, and face shields. Also, healthcare workers who may come into contact with infected patients should wear appropriate PPE as well to protect themselves and prevent the spread of the virus.
Vaccination
Vaccination is the most effective way to protect yourself from monkeypox. The monkeypox vaccine is made from the vaccinia virus, which is related to the virus that causes smallpox. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the vaccine provides immunity to monkeypox for at least 10 years. In areas where monkeypox is endemic, the World Health Organization recommends that healthcare workers and other high-risk individuals be vaccinated against smallpox to help prevent the spread of monkeypox.
If you suspect that you may have been infected by the monkeypox virus:
Isolate yourself: If you suspect you have monkeypox, try to isolate yourself from other people to avoid spreading the disease.
Seek medical attention: Contact your healthcare provider and inform them of your symptoms and concerns. If you are in an area where monkeypox is endemic, contact your local health department or the CDC for guidance.
Follow medical advice: Your healthcare provider will give you advice on how to manage your symptoms and prevent the spread of the disease. Follow their instructions carefully.
Protecting yourself against monkeypox is essential for maintaining good health and preventing the spread of the disease. By taking the necessary precautions and seeking medical attention if necessary, you can reduce your risk of contracting monkeypox and stay healthy.
It you have health concerns or questions about monkeypox and available vaccines for the ailment, you can Contact us now to address your concerns. We care about protecting yourself and those around you!