What is Monkeypox?
Monkeypox is a disease caused by the Monkeypox virus. It is part of the family of viruses that cause Smallpox. First discovered in 1958, scientists have yet to uncover the origin of this dangerous disease.
How is Monkeypox Spread?
Most Monkeypox cases have resulted from direct physical contact or exposure to respiratory secretions from an infected individual.
Symptoms of Monkeypox
Headache
Fever
Chills
Fatigue
Sore throat
Nasal congestion
Cough
Pimple or blister-like lesions that may be on the genitals, anus, feet, hands, chest, face
Monkeypox Treatments
The CDC has announced that there are no current treatment plans for the outbreak of Monkeypox. Severely affected patients have been treated with medications previously used to treat Smallpox. The current Smallpox medications are:
Tecovirimat (TPOXX)
Vaccinia Immune Globulin Intravenous (VIGIV)
Cidofovir (Vistide)
Brincidofovir (CMX001/Tembexa)
Who Can Get the Vaccine?
Currently, the only patients able to receive a Monkeypox vaccination are those exposed or susceptible to contracting the virus. JYNNEOS is the vaccine approved by the FDA for emergency use with patients over the age of 18. It is a two-dose vaccine administered to the patient 28 days apart.
Preventing Monkeypox
The CDC recommends three steps to help prevent Monkeypox:
Avoid close contact with people with a rash that looks like Monkeypox.
Avoid contact with items that a person with Monkeypox has used.
Wash your hands often.
As we learn more about Monkeypox, you can count on us at Health on South Rx to keep you informed.