Recently, there is a new virus strain – monkeypox which looks kind of similar to chickenpox. Did you know that?
What is monkeypox?
Monkeypox is a member of the viruses family – smallpox, although it is much less severe and experts say chances of infection are low. Sometimes, it resembles chickenpox and it clears up on its own within a few weeks. Currently, there are two main strains of the virus which are in west African and central African.
What are the symptoms?
- Fever, headaches, swellings, aching muscles and exhaustion
- Itchy rash mainly on face, hands and feet
How do you catch it?
Monkeypox can be spread when someone is in close contact with the infected person. The virus enters the body through broken skin, the respiratory tract or through the eyes, nose or mouth. It possibly can be passed on by direct contact during sex as well.
It can also be spread by contact with infected animals such as monkeys, rats and squirrels or by objects that are contaminated by virus such as bedding and clothing.
Treatment
- Smallpox vaccine (85% effective)
- Antiviral drugs