–
The disease monkeypox is caused by the monkeypox virus is spreading to many countries. data of World Health Organization (WHO) indicate that 80 cases of this smallpox (monkeypox) had already been reported by 11 countries, as of May 20, including Portugal, where the Directorate-General for Health reported that 23 cases were confirmed.
Monkeypox is a zoonotic viral disease, which means it can spread from animals to humans, but also between humans.
The monkeypox virus is endemic in some animal populations in several countries, and in some cases leads to occasional outbreaks among the local population and travelers. However, the WHO indicates that the recent outbreaks that have been reported are atypical, as they are occurring in non-endemic countries.
Symptoms and treatment
Symptoms of monkeypox usually include fever, severe headache, muscle aches, back pain, tiredness, swollen lymph nodes, and rashes or lesions. The rash usually starts within one to three days after the fever starts. Lesions may be flat or slightly raised, filled with clear or yellowish fluid, and may crust over, dry out, and fall off. The amount of injuries can range from a few to several thousand. The rash appears mostly on the face, palms, and palms of the feet, but can also be found on the mouth, genitals, and eyes.
Symptoms usually last between two to four weeks and disappear without treatment. But the WHO says it’s important to care for the rash by letting it dry if possible, or covering it with a damp dressing to protect the area if necessary. Avoid touching the sores in the mouth or eyes. Mouthwashes and eye drops can be used as long as they do not contain them. Vaccinia immunoglobulin may be recommended in severe cases. Tecovirimat, an antiviral, was approved for the treatment of smallpox in January 2022.
Risks of getting monkeypox
But the WHO advises that if a person experiences symptoms such as those described then they should seek medical advice, and remember that monkeypox spreads differently from COVID-19. People who interact closely with someone who is infected with monkeypox are at increased risk of infection, as are healthcare workers, family members and sexual partners.
