Monkeypox Virus (MPOX) and Symptoms – Erdem Hospital

Monkeypox virus (mpox) is a contagious disease that causes red, fluid-filled, itchy skin rashes, fever, headache, muscle pain, and swollen lymph nodes. These rashes can appear on the face, arms, legs, genital area, and anus. Monkeypox spreads through direct contact with an infected person’s skin lesions or body fluids, prolonged close contact, kissing, and sexual intercourse.

What is Monkeypox Virus (MPOX)?

Monkeypox virus belongs to the Orthopoxvirus family and is known as a zoonotic disease, meaning it can be transmitted from animals to humans. Infection usually occurs through direct contact with the body fluids, blood, or skin lesions of an infected animal. Among humans, transmission mainly happens through direct skin contact, respiratory droplets, or contaminated objects.

How is Monkeypox Virus (MPOX) Transmitted?

• Direct contact: Touching an infected person’s rash, lesions, or body fluids
• Respiratory transmission: Prolonged face-to-face contact or kissing
• Sexual contact: Unprotected intercourse
• Contaminated objects: Sharing towels, bedsheets, and clothing
• Animal-to-human transmission: Bites, scratches, or consumption of infected animal meat

Symptoms of Monkeypox Virus (MPOX)

Symptoms of monkeypox usually appear within 3 weeks of exposure and may include:

• Fever
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Fatigue and muscle aches
• Headache
• Skin rashes that develop into fluid-filled lesions
• Respiratory issues (sore throat, nasal congestion, cough)
• Digestive problems (vomiting, diarrhea)
• Severe cases may lead to pneumonia, brain inflammation, or myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle).

Stages of Monkeypox Disease

1. Incubation Period: Lasts 1-2 weeks with no symptoms or risk of transmission.
2. Prodromal Stage: Early symptoms appear, such as fever, fatigue, headache, swollen lymph nodes, and muscle pain.
3. Rash Stage: This is the most contagious phase, where rashes appear and turn into scabs before healing.

How is Monkeypox Virus (MPOX) Diagnosed?

Since monkeypox symptoms resemble chickenpox, measles, syphilis, and bacterial skin infections, laboratory testing is required for confirmation. The most accurate test is PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction), which is performed using samples from skin lesions. If no skin lesions are present, an anal or rectal swab may be collected. A blood test may also be done to check for immune system antibodies.

How to Prevent Monkeypox Virus (MPOX)?

• Practice hand hygiene: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or use alcohol-based sanitizers.
• Avoid close contact: Stay away from people with visible rashes or symptoms.
• Do not share personal items: Towels, bedding, and clothing should not be shared.
• Be cautious with animals: Avoid contact with infected animals.
• Get vaccinated: Smallpox vaccines provide partial protection against monkeypox.

Is There a Treatment for Monkeypox Virus (MPOX)?

There is no specific treatment for monkeypox, but antiviral medications developed for smallpox can help manage symptoms. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms, preventing secondary infections, and supporting overall health.

Frequently Asked Questions About Monkeypox Virus (MPOX)

Is monkeypox virus deadly?

Most cases are mild and resolve on their own, but people with weak immune systems may experience severe illness. In rare cases, monkeypox can be fatal.

Is monkeypox virus present in Turkey?

A case was detected in Turkey in 2022, but currently, there are no reports of an ongoing outbreak.

Does monkeypox heal on its own?

Yes, the illness usually lasts 2-4 weeks and resolves without medical intervention in most cases.

What is the difference between monkeypox and chickenpox?

Monkeypox is an orthopoxvirus, while chickenpox is caused by the herpesvirus family.

• Chickenpox is more contagious and spreads faster.
• Chickenpox resolves in 2 weeks, whereas monkeypox may take 2-4 weeks.

How does monkeypox differ from COVID-19?

Early symptoms of monkeypox, such as fever and chills, are similar to COVID-19. However, monkeypox causes painful, itchy rashes and swollen lymph nodes, which distinguish it from COVID-19.

How can monkeypox transmission be prevented?

Following proper hygiene measures, avoiding contact with infected individuals, and smallpox vaccination are the most effective preventive measures.

Conclusion

Recognizing symptoms early and taking necessary precautions can help prevent the spread of monkeypox. If you notice suspicious symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.

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