Monkeypox Symptoms: Key Facts You Need to Know

Have you wondered what monkeypox looks like? Identifying monkeypox can be difficult unless you recognise unique signs like swollen lymph nodes. This blog guides you through the key monkeypox symptoms, early signs, diagnosis, treatment, and vaccinations. Read on to learn how you can manage an Mpox infection.

What is Monkeypox?

Monkeypox is a zoonotic virus primarily transmitted from animals to humans. First discovered in 1958, the disease was initially observed in a group of monkeys. Monkeypox typically produces symptoms such as flu-like illness or rashes. The monkeypox virus belongs to the same family as the variola virus, which causes smallpox.

Most Common Occurrence of Mpox

Although Mpox rarely occurs in humans, its origins trace back to Africa, specifically Central and West Africa. In fact, Africa has recorded the most frequent cases of monkeypox. However, several new cases of Mpox have also been reported in Australia, Europe, and the United States.

Who Does Mpox Affect?

Mpox infection can occur in individuals of all groups, but certain people are more prone to developing an infection. They include:

• Children under 15 years of age
• Males engaging in sexual intercourse with other males (MSM)
• Individuals with multiple sexual partners

What are the First Signs of Monkeypox?

Some common monkeypox symptoms include:

• Severe and continuous headache
• Flu-like symptoms
• Mild to high fever, sudden chills
• Low energy, leading to consistent tiredness, exhaustion, and fatigue
• Muscle pain and backache
• Sore throat causing discomfort while swallowing
• Swollen lymph nodes in the neck, groin, or armpits
• Rashes appearing 1 to 3 days after consistent fever; starting on the face, then spreading to the palms, soles, and the rest of the body
• Dry and persistent cough, breathing difficulties, and respiratory discomfort
• Flat red spots (macules) that develop into raised bumps (papules)
• Papules progressing into fluid-filled vesicles
• Vesicles turning into pus-filled pustules
• Pustules eventually falling off
• Impact on mucous membranes
• Painful and sore lesions on the mouth, eyes, or genitals
• General feelings of illness
• Joint pain

How Can I Know if I Have Monkeypox?

Monkeypox infection progresses in two stages. In the initial stage, individuals experience flu-like symptoms, including body aches, fever, headaches, exhaustion, and chills. The immune system undergoes changes, causing the lymph nodes to enlarge.
In the second stage, the actual 'pox' develops, resulting in rashes that spread from the face to the arms, feet, genital areas, and eventually the entire body. Observing these symptoms can help you recognise an Mpox infection.

Transmission of Mpox

The monkeypox virus primarily transmits from animals to humans. However, individuals who come into contact with infected people or animals, or with objects contaminated with the virus, can develop monkeypox symptoms. Common modes of monkeypox transmission include:

• Human-to-human contact through body fluids, respiratory droplets, or skin lesions of an infected person
• Animal-to-human transmission through bites, scratches, or handling infected animals (alive or dead)
• Physical contact with contaminated objects such as bedding, clothing, towels, or cosmetic products used by infected persons
• Intimate interactions with infected individuals, including sexual intercourse, kissing, cuddling, or hugging
• Sharing a bed with an infected individual
• Specific communities, such as family members, sexual partners of infected individuals, or healthcare workers, are more vulnerable to Mpox infection

Mpox Diagnosis

Diagnosing Mpox can be challenging as its rashes often resemble those of measles or chickenpox. Most healthcare professionals observe swollen lymph nodes to distinguish Mpox from similar infections. To confirm Mpox, you may need to undergo a laboratory test by providing a tissue sample. A healthcare provider will conduct a PCR (polymerase chain reaction) test on the open sores and lesions to detect the presence of the Mpox virus. Alternatively, a blood sample may be taken to examine any antibody development against the virus.

Monkeypox Treatment Options

Monkeypox symptoms can weaken the immune system. For treatment, antiviral drugs are considered the most effective option. Scientists are also conducting further research to find additional treatments for Mpox. Supportive care is essential to soothe skin lesions and manage symptoms.

What are Monkeypox Vaccinations?

Monkeypox vaccinations can be administered either as a preventive measure before developing symptoms or after infection. If already infected, vaccines help minimise the severity of the disease. It is crucial to consult a healthcare specialist immediately after exposure to the Mpox virus. Alternatively, you can receive vaccinations in advance under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Ways to Prevent Mpox

To prevent monkeypox infection, you should:

• Avoid contact with infected humans or animals
• Avoid using contaminated materials used by Mpox patients
• Practise safe sex by using condoms
• Wash hands frequently with soap, water, or alcohol-based sanitiser
• Thoroughly cook animal products such as meat
• Disinfect frequently touched surfaces
• Cover your mouth and nose around others, whether healthy or infected
• Follow public health guidelines to reduce the risk of Mpox infection
• Use personal protective equipment (PPE), such as masks or gloves, when handling infected people or animals

How Long Does Mpox Last?

The Mpox infection typically lasts around 2 to 4 weeks. If infected, your healthcare specialist will monitor your condition regularly until the rashes have resolved completely.

Is Mpox Curable?

Mpox is a self-limited disease, with symptoms improving over time. Recovery usually occurs within 2 to 4 weeks. However, it is essential to consult a healthcare specialist for consistent monitoring and symptom management. The healthcare professional may also prescribe antibiotics to prevent secondary bacterial infections.

How is Monkeypox Different from Smallpox or Chickenpox?

Many people wonder what monkeypox looks like and how to distinguish it from smallpox or chickenpox. Mpox and smallpox are both caused by the orthopoxvirus, while chickenpox is caused by the herpesvirus. However, both chickenpox and smallpox are far more contagious and life-threatening than Mpox.

Can Mpox Be Life-Threatening?

Although Mpox is curable, it can lead to severe complications in some cases. Secondary infections, encephalitis, brain or eye infections, and pneumonia are some major life-threatening conditions that may result from an Mpox infection.

Tips for Self-Care During Mpox

If you are suffering from an Mpox infection, you can take primary care steps:

• Take warm oatmeal baths
• Cover sores and lesions with gauze or bandages
• Use pain relievers to soothe symptoms
• Isolate yourself to prevent spreading the infection
• Avoid contact with pets, whether they are sick or healthy

When Should I See a Doctor?

If you are exposed to the monkeypox virus or notice any of the following symptoms, consult a doctor immediately:

• Trouble breathing
• Physical contact with infected individuals
• Swollen lymph nodes, body aches, sickness, and persistent fever
• Worsening chest pain
• New rashes and sores on your body

Final Thoughts

Monkeypox symptoms can be challenging to identify. Doctors rely on specific signs to diagnose an Mpox infection. Visit MD.co.uk for the best diagnosis, treatment, and vaccinations for monkeypox.