World Health Organization declares Monkeypox a global Health emergency
Given the WHO’s recent declaration regarding monkeypox, many people have new questions and concerns about the virus. Read our introduction to monkeypox below:
What is Monkeypox?
Monkeypox is a rash that can look like pimples or blisters on the face, the inside of the mouth, hands, feet, chest, genitals, or anus. Monkeypox infections are typically not severe; symptoms are usually similar to the flu with a rash and resolve within 2-4 weeks.
The general population is currently at low risk for contracting monkeypox, but careful surveillance of the outbreak by the public health and health care sectors is needed. Medical providers should be on alert for any patient who is experiencing a rash that is characteristic of monkeypox and follow CDC guidelines on next steps, including infection control, testing, and reporting.
The spread of monkeypox is different than the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic:
The general population is currently at low risk for contracting monkeypox, but careful surveillance of the outbreak by the public health and health care sectors is needed. Medical providers should be on alert for any patient who is experiencing a rash that is characteristic of monkeypox and follow CDC guidelines on next steps, including infection control, testing, and reporting.
The spread of monkeypox is different than the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic:
- There is a vaccine for monkeypox.
- Monkeypox can be treated with available antiviral medicines.
- While COVID-19 passed easily from person to person, monkeypox does not spread as easily between people. Monkeypox transmission typically requires skin-to-skin contact, direct contact with body fluids, or prolonged, close face-to-face contact.
According to CDC and other public health laboratory officials, current U.S. testing capacity is sufficient, but capacity is being added in commercial and public health laboratories in case it is needed.
Updated July 1, 2022
How is monkeypox Spread?
Monkeypox transmission typically requires skin-to-skin contact, direct contact with body fluids, or prolonged, close face-to-face contact. Any person, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation, can acquire and spread monkeypox. Currently, the vast majority of the known monkeypox cases are among men who have sex with men.
Traveling to a country currently experiencing an outbreak could increase your risk of contracting monkeypox. If you are planning international travel, check that country’s infection rate on the WHO website. If necessary, consult your doctor about getting a monkeypox vaccination before traveling, or if you have been exposed.
Updated July 1, 2022
Traveling to a country currently experiencing an outbreak could increase your risk of contracting monkeypox. If you are planning international travel, check that country’s infection rate on the WHO website. If necessary, consult your doctor about getting a monkeypox vaccination before traveling, or if you have been exposed.
Updated July 1, 2022
