Monkeypox is a contagious disease caused by the monkeypox virus. The virus is part of the same family of viruses that causes smallpox, but it is not as severe. Monkeypox was first discovered in 1958 in laboratory monkeys, hence the name. The first human case was reported in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Since then, monkeypox has been reported in several countries in Africa, as well as in the United States, Europe, and Asia.
Monkeypox is typically transmitted through close contact with an infected person or animal. The virus can enter the body through broken skin, the respiratory tract, or the mucous membranes of the eyes, nose, or mouth. Contact with infected bodily fluids or contaminated objects can also spread the virus. Monkeypox can also be transmitted from an infected pregnant woman to her fetus through the placenta.
how do you catch monkeypox
Monkeypox is transmitted through close contact with an infected person or animal.
- Contact with infected bodily fluids
- Contact with contaminated objects
- Inhalation of respiratory droplets
- Contact with broken skin
- Contact with mucous membranes
- From an infected pregnant woman to her fetus
- Animal bites or scratches
- Eating undercooked meat from infected animals
It is important to take precautions to avoid contact with infected people or animals and to practice good hygiene to prevent the spread of monkeypox.
Contact with infected bodily fluids
Monkeypox can be transmitted through contact with infected bodily fluids, such as blood, saliva, urine, and feces. This can occur through direct contact with an infected person, such as through kissing, hugging, or sharing bodily fluids. It can also occur through indirect contact with contaminated objects, such as clothing, bedding, or surfaces.
- Contact with blood: Monkeypox virus can be present in the blood of an infected person. Contact with infected blood can occur through broken skin, such as through a cut or abrasion, or through contact with mucous membranes, such as the eyes, nose, or mouth.
- Contact with saliva: Monkeypox virus can be present in the saliva of an infected person. Contact with infected saliva can occur through kissing, sharing drinks or utensils, or through contact with respiratory droplets produced by coughing or sneezing.
- Contact with urine and feces: Monkeypox virus can be present in the urine and feces of an infected person. Contact with infected urine or feces can occur through direct contact with the bodily fluids or through contact with contaminated objects, such as clothing or bedding.
- Contact with other bodily fluids: Monkeypox virus can also be present in other bodily fluids, such as breast milk, semen, and vaginal fluids. Contact with these fluids can also spread the virus.
It is important to avoid contact with infected bodily fluids and to practice good hygiene to prevent the spread of monkeypox. This includes washing your hands frequently with soap and water, avoiding contact with open sores or rashes, and using condoms during sex.
Contact with contaminated objects
Monkeypox can also be transmitted through contact with contaminated objects, such as clothing, bedding, towels, and surfaces. This can occur when an infected person coughs or sneezes, or when they touch objects with unwashed hands. The virus can survive on surfaces for several hours, so it is important to clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces.
Some specific examples of how monkeypox can be transmitted through contact with contaminated objects include:
- Sharing towels or clothing: If an infected person uses a towel or piece of clothing, the virus can be transferred to the object and then to another person who uses it.
- Touching contaminated surfaces: If an infected person touches a surface, such as a doorknob or tabletop, the virus can be transferred to the surface and then to another person who touches the same surface.
- Handling contaminated objects: If an infected person handles objects, such as dishes or utensils, the virus can be transferred to the objects and then to another person who uses them.
- Cleaning or handling contaminated laundry: If an infected person’s laundry is not properly cleaned and disinfected, the virus can be transferred to other items of clothing or to the person who handles the laundry.
To prevent the spread of monkeypox through contact with contaminated objects, it is important to clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces, avoid sharing personal items, and wash your hands frequently with soap and water.
If you have been in contact with someone who has monkeypox, it is important to monitor yourself for symptoms and to see a doctor if you develop any symptoms.
Inhalation of respiratory droplets
Monkeypox can also be transmitted through inhalation of respiratory droplets. This can occur when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. Respiratory droplets are small particles of liquid that contain the virus. When an infected person coughs or sneezes, these droplets can be expelled into the air and inhaled by another person.
- Close contact with an infected person: Monkeypox can be transmitted through inhalation of respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. This is most likely to occur when people are in close contact with each other, such as when living together, working together, or sharing a meal.
- Prolonged exposure to respiratory droplets: The risk of transmission through inhalation of respiratory droplets increases with the amount of time spent in close contact with an infected person. For example, healthcare workers who provide care for monkeypox patients are at higher risk of infection than people who have brief contact with an infected person.
- Poor ventilation: The risk of transmission through inhalation of respiratory droplets is also higher in poorly ventilated spaces. This is because the virus can remain suspended in the air for longer periods of time in these spaces.
- Singing, shouting, or exercising: Activities that increase the production of respiratory droplets, such as singing, shouting, or exercising, can also increase the risk of transmission through inhalation of respiratory droplets.
To prevent the spread of monkeypox through inhalation of respiratory droplets, it is important to maintain good ventilation, wear a mask in indoor public spaces, and avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Contact with broken skin
Monkeypox can also be transmitted through contact with broken skin. This can occur when an infected person scratches or breaks their skin and the virus comes into contact with the broken skin of another person. It can also occur through contact with objects that have been contaminated with the virus, such as razors or needles.
- Direct contact with infected skin: Monkeypox can be transmitted through direct contact with the skin of an infected person. This can occur during activities such as hugging, kissing, or sharing clothing or bedding.
- Contact with contaminated objects: Monkeypox can also be transmitted through contact with objects that have been contaminated with the virus. This can include objects such as razors, needles, or towels.
- Insect bites: Monkeypox can also be transmitted through the bites of certain insects, such as mosquitoes and flies. This is most likely to occur in areas where monkeypox is common.
- Animal bites or scratches: Monkeypox can also be transmitted through the bites or scratches of infected animals. This is most likely to occur in areas where monkeypox is common.
To prevent the spread of monkeypox through contact with broken skin, it is important to avoid contact with infected people or animals, and to practice good hygiene, including washing your hands frequently with soap and water and avoiding touching your face.
Contact with mucous membranes
Monkeypox can also be transmitted through contact with mucous membranes, such as the eyes, nose, or mouth. This can occur when an infected person coughs or sneezes and the respiratory droplets containing the virus come into contact with the mucous membranes of another person. It can also occur through contact with contaminated objects, such as doorknobs or countertops.
- Contact with infected respiratory droplets: Monkeypox can be transmitted through contact with infected respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. These droplets can contain the virus and can enter the body through the mucous membranes of the eyes, nose, or mouth.
- Contact with contaminated surfaces: Monkeypox can also be transmitted through contact with contaminated surfaces. The virus can survive on surfaces for several hours, and if a person touches a contaminated surface and then touches their eyes, nose, or mouth, they can become infected.
- Contact with infected bodily fluids: Monkeypox can also be transmitted through contact with infected bodily fluids, such as blood, saliva, or urine. If these fluids come into contact with the mucous membranes of the eyes, nose, or mouth, they can cause infection.
- Sexual contact: Monkeypox can also be transmitted through sexual contact. The virus can be present in semen and vaginal fluids, and if these fluids come into contact with the mucous membranes of the genitals, anus, or mouth, they can cause infection.
To prevent the spread of monkeypox through contact with mucous membranes, it is important to avoid contact with infected people or animals, to practice good hygiene, and to avoid touching your face.
From an infected pregnant woman to her fetus
Monkeypox can also be transmitted from an infected pregnant woman to her fetus through the placenta. This can occur at any time during pregnancy, but it is most likely to occur in the third trimester. If a pregnant woman is infected with monkeypox, there is a risk that her fetus will also become infected.
- Placental transmission: Monkeypox virus can cross the placenta and infect the fetus. This can occur at any time during pregnancy, but it is most likely to occur in the third trimester.
- Congenital monkeypox: If a fetus is infected with monkeypox, it is known as congenital monkeypox. Congenital monkeypox can cause a range of health problems, including premature birth, low birth weight, and skin lesions.
- Stillbirth and neonatal death: In some cases, congenital monkeypox can lead to stillbirth or neonatal death. This is more likely to occur if the fetus is infected early in pregnancy.
- Long-term health problems: Children who are infected with monkeypox in the womb may have long-term health problems, such as vision problems, hearing problems, and developmental delays.
There is no specific treatment for congenital monkeypox. Treatment is supportive and focuses on managing the symptoms of the infection. Pregnant women who are infected with monkeypox should be closely monitored by a healthcare provider.
Animal bites or scratches
Monkeypox can also be transmitted through the bites or scratches of infected animals. This is most likely to occur in areas where monkeypox is common. Animals that can carry monkeypox include monkeys, chimpanzees, gorillas, and squirrels.
- Direct contact with infected animals: Monkeypox can be transmitted through direct contact with infected animals, such as monkeys, chimpanzees, gorillas, and squirrels. This can occur through bites, scratches, or contact with the animal’s blood or bodily fluids.
- Contact with contaminated objects: Monkeypox can also be transmitted through contact with objects that have been contaminated with the virus from infected animals. This can include objects such as bedding, cages, or food.
- Eating undercooked meat: Monkeypox can also be transmitted through eating undercooked meat from infected animals. This is most likely to occur in areas where monkeypox is common.
- Hunting or handling infected animals: People who hunt or handle infected animals are at increased risk of contracting monkeypox. This includes people who work in zoos, animal shelters, or research laboratories.
To prevent the spread of monkeypox through animal bites or scratches, it is important to avoid contact with wild animals, to cook meat thoroughly, and to wear protective clothing when handling animals.
Eating undercooked meat from infected animals
Monkeypox can also be transmitted through eating undercooked meat from infected animals. This is most likely to occur in areas where monkeypox is common. Animals that can carry monkeypox include monkeys, chimpanzees, gorillas, and squirrels.
- Consuming raw or undercooked meat: Eating raw or undercooked meat from infected animals is the most common way to contract monkeypox through food. This is because the virus can survive in animal meat, even if the meat is cooked at low temperatures.
- Hunting or handling infected animals: People who hunt or handle infected animals are at increased risk of contracting monkeypox through eating undercooked meat. This is because they may come into contact with the blood or bodily fluids of infected animals, which can contaminate the meat.
- Preparing or consuming bushmeat: Bushmeat is the meat of wild animals that are hunted for food. In some areas, bushmeat is a common source of protein. However, bushmeat can be contaminated with monkeypox virus, especially if it is not cooked properly.
- Traveling to areas where monkeypox is common: People who travel to areas where monkeypox is common should be aware of the risk of contracting the virus through eating undercooked meat. They should only eat meat that has been cooked thoroughly.
To prevent the spread of monkeypox through eating undercooked meat, it is important to cook meat thoroughly, to avoid eating bushmeat, and to avoid contact with wild animals.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about how monkeypox is transmitted:
Question 1: How is monkeypox transmitted?
Answer: Monkeypox is primarily transmitted through close contact with an infected person or animal. This can occur through contact with infected bodily fluids, such as blood, saliva, or urine, or through contact with contaminated objects, such as clothing or bedding.
Question 2: Can monkeypox be transmitted through the air?
Answer: Monkeypox can be transmitted through the air over short distances, but this is not the main way that the virus is spread. The virus is more likely to be spread through close contact with an infected person or animal.
Question 3: Can monkeypox be transmitted through sexual contact?
Answer: Yes, monkeypox can be transmitted through sexual contact. The virus can be present in semen and vaginal fluids, and if these fluids come into contact with the mucous membranes of the genitals, anus, or mouth, they can cause infection.
Question 4: Can monkeypox be transmitted from a pregnant woman to her fetus?
Answer: Yes, monkeypox can be transmitted from a pregnant woman to her fetus through the placenta. This can occur at any time during pregnancy, but it is most likely to occur in the third trimester.
Question 5: Can monkeypox be transmitted through animal bites or scratches?
Answer: Yes, monkeypox can be transmitted through animal bites or scratches. This is most likely to occur in areas where monkeypox is common. Animals that can carry monkeypox include monkeys, chimpanzees, gorillas, and squirrels.
Question 6: Can monkeypox be transmitted through eating undercooked meat?
Answer: Yes, monkeypox can be transmitted through eating undercooked meat from infected animals. This is most likely to occur in areas where monkeypox is common.
Question 7: How can I protect myself from monkeypox?
Answer: There are a number of things you can do to protect yourself from monkeypox, including avoiding contact with infected people or animals, practicing good hygiene, and getting vaccinated if you are eligible.
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If you have any questions or concerns about monkeypox, please speak to your healthcare provider.
In addition to the information provided in the FAQ, here are some additional tips to help you prevent the spread of monkeypox:
Tips
Here are some additional tips to help you prevent the spread of monkeypox:
Tip 1: Avoid contact with infected people and animals.
This is the most important thing you can do to protect yourself from monkeypox. Avoid contact with people who are sick with monkeypox, and avoid contact with wild animals, especially in areas where monkeypox is common.
Tip 2: Practice good hygiene.
Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially after contact with an infected person or animal. Avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose, and mouth. Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces.
Tip 3: Get vaccinated.
If you are eligible for the monkeypox vaccine, get vaccinated as soon as possible. The vaccine is safe and effective in preventing monkeypox.
Tip 4: Be aware of the symptoms of monkeypox.
If you develop a rash, fever, muscle aches, or other symptoms of monkeypox, see a healthcare provider immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment can help to prevent serious complications.
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By following these tips, you can help to protect yourself and others from monkeypox.
Monkeypox is a serious but preventable disease. By taking the necessary precautions, you can help to stop the spread of the virus.
Conclusion
Monkeypox is a serious but preventable disease. The virus is spread through close contact with an infected person or animal, or through contact with contaminated objects. Symptoms of monkeypox include rash, fever, muscle aches, and headache. There is no specific treatment for monkeypox, but the symptoms can be managed.
The best way to prevent monkeypox is to avoid contact with infected people or animals, practice good hygiene, and get vaccinated if you are eligible. By taking these precautions, you can help to stop the spread of the virus.
Closing Message:
Monkeypox is a reminder that we are all connected. Our health is interconnected with the health of our communities and the health of our planet. By working together, we can prevent the spread of monkeypox and other infectious diseases.
