Monkeypox: What It Is & Just How Concerned You Should Be

Monkeypox is only occasionally fatal, the rapid spread of the disease outside of Africa has raised alarm bells among medical professionals that we could be facing another  possible pandemic.

So what exactly is Monkeypox and just how concerned should you be? Let’s take a look at the history of Monkeypox and some of the key facts  about it.

What Is Monkeypox?

According to the CDC, Monkeypox is a rare disease that is caused by infection with Monkeypox virus.

Monkeypox In The US

Monkeypox is very rare in the United States, but it has happened. All people infected with Monkeypox in this outbreak became ill after having contact with pet prairie dogs.

How Is It Transmitted In Humans?

Human-to-human transmission is thought to occur primarily through large respiratory droplets.

Symptoms

Monkeypox symptoms are similar to smallpox, but milder. An infection typically begins with fever, headache, muscle aches,  and exhaustion.

Treatment

For purposes of controlling a Monkeypox outbreak in the US, smallpox vaccine, antivirals, and vaccinia immune globulin (VIG) can be used.