Mpox or monkeypox is a viral infection characterized by pus-filled nodules on the skin. Monkeypox first appeared in the Democratic Republic of the Congo in 1970.
Initially, monkeypox had the same symptoms as chickenpox, namely watery nodules. Because this disease continues to grow, these watery nodules turn into pus and there are lumps in the neck, armpits or groin due to swollen lymph nodes.
Although the main source of the virus is animals, monkeypox is a contagious disease from person to person. The Monkeypox virus originates from infected rodents and primates (monkeys, mice, or squirrels).
What causes monkeypox?
Monkeypox virus is the cause of monkeypox. Monkeypox is a virus that belongs to the Orthopoxvirus group. This virus originally came from animals to humans through scratches or bites of animals, such as monkeys, squirrels, or mice, which were infected with the monkeypox virus. Monkeypox virus transmission can also occur through direct contact with the body fluids of infected animals.
Even though it takes quite a long time for someone to be infected, monkeypox is transmitted between humans and humans through splashes of saliva or droplets that enter through the eyes, mouth, nose, or a wound on the skin. Transmission can also occur through contaminated objects, for example, patient clothing.
What are the symptoms of monkeypox?
Symptoms of monkeypox usually appear around 5–21 days after the sufferer is infected with the monkeypox virus. The following are the initial symptoms of monkeypox:
- Headache
- Fever
- Muscle ache
- Tired or limp
- shivers
- Swollen lymph nodes, (characterized by a lump in the neck, armpit, or groin)
The initial symptoms of monkeypox generally last 1–3 days or more. After that, a rash will appear on the face and then spread to other parts of the body, such as the arms or legs.
The rash that appears will develop from a nodule filled with fluid to fill with pus, then cracks and crusts, then cause scabs on the surface of the skin.
How to deal with monkeypox?
Until now, there is no specific treatment for monkeypox. This disease generally only causes mild symptoms and can heal by itself in 2-4 weeks.
Keep in mind, monkeypox sufferers must be isolated so that they can be monitored by doctors and prevent the spread of the disease.
When to see a doctor?
Immediately consult a doctor if you feel symptoms such as chickenpox, especially if the following symptoms appear:
- Just traveled to a country where there are lots of cases of monkeypox
- There is contact with monkeys or squirrels
- The contents of the nodule turn into pus
How to prevent monkeypox?
The main prevention of monkeypox is to avoid direct contact with primates and rodents, such as monkeys and squirrels, or people who are infected. Here's how to prevent monkeypox:
- Wash your hands frequently with water and soap or hand sanitizer.
- Avoid sharing cutlery with other people, and do not use the same items as people infected with monkeypox.
- Avoid direct contact with monkeypox sufferers until they are declared cured.
- Avoid contact with wild animals or consuming their meat.
- Cooking food, especially meat, until cooked.
To prevent the transmission of monkeypox, doctors will give the smallpox vaccine, especially to medical workers who treat monkeypox patients. Apart from the smallpox vaccine, medical workers also need to wear personal protective equipment when treating patients.
If you have a pet that is suspected of being infected with the monkeypox virus, contact a veterinarian immediately and do not let the animal roam. It is important to remember, to use gloves and a mask before contact with these pets.
Some of the symptoms of monkeypox to watch out for in animals are:
- Fever
- Cough
- Red eye
- Runny nose
- Loss of appetite
- Rash or red spots on the skin
- Hair loss
Those are some things you need to know about monkeypox. If you have found some of the symptoms of monkeypox, immediately consult a doctor at a trusted hospital to get the right treatment.
The article was written by dr. Febrina Felicia Somba, M.Kes, Sp.KK (Skin and Venereal Specialist at EMC Alam Sutera Hospital).