Monkey Pox
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What is monkeypox?
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Monkeypox is a rare illness that causes rash, chills, and fever. It is caused by the monkeypox virus, which belongs to the same family of viruses as smallpox but is not as deadly. In the United States, the first outbreak of the virus occurred in June 2003 among dozens of people who became infected by contact with pet prairie dogs. The prairie dogs are thought to have been infected by other small animals imported from Africa to be sold as pets.
Monkeypox virus usually occurs in central and western Africa in animals such as monkeys, squirrels, and rats. People can become infected by touching infected animals or through person-to-person contact, such as when caring for a person who is ill from the virus.
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What are the symptoms of monkeypox?
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Symptoms develop about 12 days after infection and include fever, headache, muscle aches, backache, and swollen lymph nodes. A rash that turns into fluid-filled bumps develops about 3 days after the fever. The bumps later form a crust and fall off. The illness can last up to a month.
Monkeypox can cause death. In Africa, between 1% and 10% of people infected with the virus die, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). In developed countries, access to better nutrition and medical care makes the likelihood of death from monkeypox unlikely.
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How is monkeypox treated?
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There is no proven treatment for monkeypox infection. However, experts believe vaccination against smallpox may prevent or reduce the severity of monkeypox in the small number of people at risk for exposure. The CDC recommends smallpox vaccination to prevent monkeypox only for those people who may be exposed to animals or people infected with the virus.
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How do I know if my pet is infected?
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Symptoms of monkeypox in animals may include fever, cough, eye discharge, swollen lymph nodes (seen as swelling in the limbs), and a bumpy or blistery rash. Infected pets may also appear very tired and may not eat or drink.
If you think your pet may be infected, isolate the pet from people or other animals. Wash your hands thoroughly and call your state or local health department. Do not take your pet to a vet without calling first. The vet must take certain precautions to prevent the spread of the virus.
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More about monkeypox
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For more information on monkeypox, contact your state or local health department or the following organizations:Credits
Author Marianne Flagg
Editor Geri Metzger
Associate Editor Lila Havens
Primary Medical Reviewer Adam Husney, MD - Family Practice
Healthwise and the Healthwise logo are two of the registered trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated. © Copyright 2003, Healthwise, Incorporated. All rights reserved.
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