Monkeypox Updates
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have been tracking this outbreak and they have found out that most cases have been spread through close, intimate contact with someone who has monkeypox. There have been steps to prevent getting monkeypox and lower the risk during sex. That is by getting vaccinated. But, because of the limited supply of vaccines, they urge people to consider changing some behaviors that may increase the risk of being exposed. These changes may help slow the spread of the virus. The CDC urges our health workers here in the US to be vigilant and alert for patients having the rash illnesses consistent with monkeypox.
Below are the key Characteristics for identifying monkeypox.
- Lesions are firm or rubbery, well-circumscribed, deep-seated, and often develop umbilication (resembles a dot on the top of the lesion)
- During the global outbreak:
- Lesions often occur in the genital areas or the mouth.
- Rash is not always disseminated across many sites on the body.
- Rash may be confined to only a few lesions or only a single lesion.
- Rash does not always appear on palms and soles.
- Rectal symptoms (e.g., purulent or bloody stools, rectal pain, or rectal bleeding) have been frequently reported in the current outbreak.
- Lesions are often described as painful until the healing phase when they become itchy (crusts)
- Fever and other symptoms ( e.g., chills, lymphadenopathy, malaise, myalgias, or headache) can occur before rash but may occur after rash or not be present at all.
- Respiratory symptoms (e.g., sore throat, nasal congestion, or cough) can occur.
If ever you feel you have any of these symptoms, contact your nearest health care workers to help control this virus.
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