The Monkeypox Virus comes from the same family of viruses as Smallpox and was initially recognised in 1958 in research monkeys. While some of the signs and symptoms of Monkeypox are similar to that of Smallpox, Monkeypox has a significantly lower death rate than Smallpox: 3-5% vs. 30% respectively.
So far, symptoms of Monkeypox in humans have not been reported as too severe, however, the virus has been described as highly contagious, spreading from person-to-person through contact with infected clothing, bedding material and skin-to-skin contact. The risk of airborne transmission of Monkeypox is recognised to be small, as it is typically through large droplet spread and that normally only occurs with close personal contact.
Quick Facts
- The incubation period of Monkeypox is generally between one and three weeks and has been reported to self-resolve generally within two and four weeks of contracting the virus
- Individuals that are infected and those identified as close contacts should isolate for three full weeks
- Currently, there is no specific treatment or vaccine widely available for Monkeypox
- A newer version of the smallpox vaccine may become available for those at significant risk following exposure. It is very unlikely that this will be available prophylactically. If any further vaccine or treatment information becomes available, we will release further details
Symptoms of Monkeypox
Those infected with Monkeypox will have all the usual signs of a severe viral disease (fever, headache, muscle pains, sweating, rash, etc) but they will also usually have pronounced enlargement of their lymph glands, which helps distinguish it from chickenpox.
The lesions associated with Monkeypox are mainly found on the hands, feet, and head of the infected person, in contrast to lesions associated with Chickenpox which are mainly on the head and trunk.
Contracting Monkeypox
The virus can be passed from individuals through contact with infected clothing and bedding and from skin-to-skin contact. The risk of airborne transmission of Monkeypox is recognised to be small, as it is typically through large droplet spread and that normally only occurs with close personal contact.
To date, monkeypox has not been recognised as a standard sexually transmitted infection but this requires further investigation. The severity of the illness is more frequently seen in children and those with malnourishment or an altered and poor immune state.
Monkeypox is typically self-limiting and in most cases, infected persons will not have long term consequences except for the potential scarring at the sites of the healed pox lesions. Those with the disease (or close contact with an infected individual) should fully isolate for a 3-week period to lessen the risk of viral spread. Others washing their clothing and bedding will be at particular risk and caution is strongly advised.
