Skin Articles

What is monkeypox?

The World Health Organisation describes monkeypox as ‘a viral zoonotic disease, meaning that it can spread from animals to humans’. The double-stranded DNA virus can also spread among people, which is currently thought to be the more likely reason for the rising cases in Europe, the USA, Canada and Australia. 

The virus usually occurs in areas of central and west African countries near tropical regions. It tends to be regularly found in these areas (endemic) because animals living in these specific climates are more likely to carry it. 

It is unusual that cases of monkeypox spread out of these regions.

The infection comes from the same family of viruses as smallpox which means people with the virus often develop blisters and lesions on their skin. However, monkeypox is normally much less severe and tends to clear up within 14 to 21 days. 

What are the symptoms of monkeypox?

Like lots of viruses, it can take around a week for the first signs of infection to rear its head. Generally, people with monkeypox experience flu-like symptoms including a high temperature, muscle aches and swollen glands first.

Then, after around three to five days a chickenpox-like rash appears on the skin. Raised spots first, then these fill with pus. When the rash is blistered, it can be very uncomfortable, itchy and uncomfortable. As your skin clears up, the blisters scab and fall off which can cause scarring. 

How do you catch monkeypox? 

It’s thought that rats, mice and squirrels are the main culprits for carrying the virus. If you were to touch an infected animal’s blood, you are at risk of getting monkeypox. It is also possible to get the virus if you eat the meat of an infected animal or touch its fur. 

When it comes to humans, monkeypox is spread via infected coughs and sneezes, touching the skin of someone with monkeypox and sharing towels, bedding or clothing with an infected person. 

Why are cases rising in the UK? 

It was reported on May 7th 2022 that a person who had travelled to the UK from Nigeria had contracted monkeypox. Soon after a few more cases appeared however they were reported to be unrelated to the original case. This means experts are still trying to pin down exactly what’s going on.

However, like lots of viruses, it can spread through droplets of saliva. So, sometimes it doesn’t take close contact to catch the infections because coughs and sneezes spread very easily (as we know!).

So far in the UK, all the cases are in England, apart from one in Scotland. No cases have been found in Wales or Northern Ireland.

Optimistically, all of the cases in the UK are thought to be strains of the West African form of monkeypox. This one is a lot less severe than other forms. 

Speaking to the BBC, ​​Prof Jonathan Ball, professor of molecular virology at the University of Nottingham, said: “It is wrong to think that we are on the brink of a nationwide outbreak."

How do I protect myself from monkeypox?

The best way to stay healthy is to follow the basic rules of hygiene that we all already know. The NHS recommends washing your hands with soap and water more frequently for the right amount of time (singing happy birthday). You should also make sure that, if you do eat meat, it is cooked through. 

People who experience the first signs of skin symptoms are being told to contact 111 or their local sexual health clinic. 

If you do catch the virus, you are likely to be offered a smallpox vaccine. Or, if you are reported to have been in contact with someone who has the virus, you will be asked to isolate yourself for 21 days. 

Where can I learn more?

The best place to stay up to date on developments relating to monkeypox is the World Health Organisation. Follow this link to learn more.