Monkey pox is a rare, acute illness caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV). People can get infected with VZV in a number of ways and have varying reactions. Symptoms from the virus can include an outbreak of small red pimples or blisters on your mouth, hands, and other areas of your body that you might not normally be exposed to sunlight.
Red-haired people are at risk for contracting this disease because it thrives in their pigment. People who get tattoos are also at higher risk since some unlicensed tattoo artists might use contaminated needles or ink to make them. Other than that, there are no identifiable risks or triggers for contracting this virus.
For those who contract monkey pox, the infection usually resolves on its own within two weeks. However, it can occasionally lead to other complications such as pneumonia, inflammation of the brain membrane, and hepatitis B infection. Let’s take a look at what monkey Pox does to the body…
What Does Monkey Pox Do to the Body?
Monkey pox virus is a rare disease that affects both humans and animals. It is a type of poxvirus that can cause serious complications and even death in some cases.
Although it is not very common, it can be found in certain parts of the world, especially those areas where there are lots of rodents and other small mammals like rats. If you are wondering what does monkey pox do to the body, read on to find out more about this disease, its symptoms, and how you can prevent contracting it.
What is Monkey Pox?
Monkey pox is a rare, viral infection caused by the monkey pox virus that primarily affects rodents, primates, and humans. The virus is a close relative of the vaccinia virus, which is used in smallpox vaccines.
However, while people vaccinated against smallpox will not get monkey pox, people who have been vaccinated against smallpox can still get monkey pox. Infection can occur when people are exposed to items that are contaminated with small droplets from the air that are emitted when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Transmission from person to person is also possible, but it is very unlikely.
How Does Monkey Pox Affect the Body?
Monkey pox virus infects the top layer of the skin and the lymph nodes, causing a rash that usually begins on the face, trunk, arms, and legs. Symptoms of monkey pox usually develop 10-12 days after exposure to the virus and include fever, headache, muscle aches, and swollen lymph nodes.
There is also a possibility that the virus may spread to the internal organs causing complications such as hepatitis, encephalitis, or meningitis. If the infection spreads to the bloodstream, it may lead to sepsis, a potentially life-threatening complication.
Symptoms of Monkey Pox
As mentioned earlier, monkey pox is a rare disease that affects only a few people every year. However, if you do contract it, you will likely experience one or more of the following symptoms:
– Fever
– Headache
– Swollen lymph nodes
– Rash on the skin
– Muscle aches
– Fatigue
– Loss of appetite
– Intermittent cough
– Hoarseness
Treating Monkey Pox
There is no specific treatment for monkey pox, but anti-viral drugs like cidofovir, foscarnet, and pleconaril may be used to treat severe complications like sepsis. Depending on your symptoms, the doctor may prescribe antibiotics to treat any secondary bacterial infections. Since monkey pox is not very common, there are no standard treatments or therapies for it.
Prevention of Monkey Pox
The best way to stay safe from monkey pox is to avoid contact with rodents and other animals. The CDC recommends the following precautions to protect yourself from monkey pox:
– Avoid contact with rodents and other wild animals
– Avoid contact with people who have a rash
– Wash your hands often with soap and water
– Do not touch your eyes, nose, or mouth
– Disinfect any items that may be contaminated with blood or body fluids
– Stay home when you are sick
– Vaccinate your pets
– Avoid traveling to areas where monkeys and rodents live
Conclusion
If you are not vaccinated against monkey pox, you can contract it by coming into contact with infected animals or by touching contaminated items. The CDC recommends vaccinating people who are likely to be exposed to the virus, such as veterinarians, people who work in labs, or healthcare workers.
So if you are wondering what does monkey pox do to the body, now you know – it can lead to serious complications and even death in some cases. In order to stay safe, it is important to avoid contact with rodents and other animals.