Recently, the UK has experienced its first cases of monkey pox in four years. Though the risk of catching the monkey pox virus is low, it is still important to be cautious. To help reduce your chances of exposure to the condition, we have created this guide on causes, symptoms, and treatments.
Causes of Monkey Pox
Monkey pox is not often seen in the UK. The last outbreak occurred in 2018 and it is only in 2022 that more cases have been reported. Generally, monkey pox is found in west or central Africa, though occasionally it spreads elsewhere. It is caused by a virus similar to the smallpox virus. A person can catch smallpox if they have:- Been in close physical contact with blisters or scabs resulting from monkey pox - close physical contact includes kissing, holding hands, cuddling, and sexual contact
- Touched clothing, bedding, or towels used by someone who has monkey pox
- Been near someone with the virus when they cough or sneeze
- Have been bitten by an infected animal
- Touch an infected animal's fur, skin, blood, bodily fluids, spots, blisters, or scabs
- Eat the meat of an infected animal that has not been thoroughly cooked
Monkey Pox Symptoms
You will likely take anywhere between 5 and 21 days to show symptoms of monkey pox after being exposed. These symptoms include a fever (high temperature, shivering, muscle aches) and general fatigue. Once these symptoms present themselves, a rash appears up to five days later. It starts on the face before spreading to other areas, including the mouth and genitals. The rash can resemble chickenpox. Raised spots become fluid-filled blisters, which then scab over and fall off. Symptoms generally last for a few weeks before going away. During this period, you can pass monkey pox to other people. If you present with symptoms of monkey pox, it is recommended that you contact a sexual health clinic. When this is not possible, call 111 for advice instead. For children presenting symptoms, make an appointment with their GP.Monkey Pox Treatment
In most cases, monkey pox does not require treatment. People with the condition are likely to recover on their own within a few weeks. It is advised that they stay at home and avoid close contact with other people until they have received advice from their doctor or the sexual health clinic. However, older people and people with a reduced immune system are more vulnerable to the virus. This means they may become seriously unwell. If this is the case, hospital treatment may prove necessary. Fortunately, even if you experience severe symptoms, the virus is unlikely to prove fatal. In the UK, there have been no reported deaths. Of 6,027 global confirmed cases, only 3 deaths have been connected to monkey pox.Is There a Vaccine?
There is not currently a vaccination specifically for monkey pox. However, as it possesses several similarities to the smallpox virus, the smallpox vaccination (MVA) can help to increase protection. The vaccine is currently being offered to people who are more likely to be exposed to the virus. This includes:- Healthcare workers caring for patients who have or may have monkey pox
- Men who have sex with men and/or have multiple partners
- People who have been in close contact with someone who has the virus