Monkeypox Symptoms Usually Show Up in This Order

Monkeypox, often referred to as mpox, is a viral infection similar to smallpox, though less severe. If you have monkeypox, you may experience symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle aches, and a distinctive rash that progresses to painful, fluid-filled lesions.

The monkeypox virus was first discovered in 1958, and human cases were first identified in 1970. Knowing about its symptoms, causes, and ways it spreads is crucial to protecting yourself and others, especially in communities where it might be more prevalent.

If you think you or someone close to you might be showing signs of monkeypox, it’s vital to seek medical attention promptly. A healthcare provider can offer the correct diagnosis and advise on the appropriate treatment to manage the infection.

Forms of Monkeypox

Monkeypox occurs in two distinct clades: the West African and the Central African (Congo Basin) clades. The West African clade typically causes milder illness with a lower mortality rate, while the Central African clade is more severe, with higher mortality and greater human-to-human transmission rates. Recognizing these differences is crucial for identifying and managing the disease effectively.

West African Origin

The West African clade form of monkeypox has a lower mortality rate than the Central African clade. It is more commonly found in West African countries and has a lower transmission rate.

It is possible to recover within a few weeks without severe complications, although some individuals may experience secondary bacterial infections.

Central African Source

The Central African clade, also known as the Congo Basin clade, is more severe and has a higher mortality rate. This form is predominantly found in Central African countries and is more easily transmitted from person to person.

You may experience complications such as pneumonia, sepsis, or encephalitis, making it more dangerous. This clade’s higher severity and transmission rate necessitates more rigorous public health interventions.

Transmission of Monkeypox

Monkeypox spreads through both animal-human and human-human interactions. Each route carries unique risks and implications for public health, emphasizing the importance of understanding and preventing its spread.

Direct Contact

Monkeypox can spread through direct contact with the blood, other body fluids, lesions, or sores of an infected person or animal. This type of transmission is common when handling infected animals, such as rodents or primates.

Human-to-human transmission via direct contact often occurs in close settings, where skin lesions or bodily fluids are easily transferred. Contact with infected animals can occur through bites, scratches, or preparing meat from infected animals.

Airborne Droplets

Transmission via respiratory droplets occurs when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks, releasing droplets containing the virus into the air. These droplets can be inhaled by nearby individuals, leading to infection.

This mode of transmission is most effective in closed, prolonged contact situations, such as within households, public transportation, elevators, or crowded spaces. While respiratory droplet transmission is not as efficient as direct contact, it poses significant risks, especially in indoor environments with poor ventilation.

Sexual Contact

Monkeypox can be transmitted through sexual contact, particularly when lesions or sores are present on the genitals or other areas involved in sexual activity. The risk is increased as lesions may not always be immediately visible in these areas.

The virus can spread through direct skin-to-skin contact or contact with bodily fluids during intercourse, making sexual transmission a significant concern in outbreaks.

Contaminated Materials and Surfaces

Monkeypox can spread through contact with contaminated materials, such as clothing, bedding, or medical equipment that has been exposed to the virus via an infected person or animal. Although the virus can survive on surfaces for days to weeks, its infectiousness decreases over time.

To reduce the risk of indirect transmission, it is important to thoroughly clean and disinfect any materials or surfaces that may have been in contact with the virus.

Mother-Baby Transmission

Congenital transmission occurs when a pregnant woman infected with monkeypox passes the virus to her fetus. This type of transmission is particularly concerning as it can lead to severe outcomes for both the mother and the unborn child.

The virus can cross the placenta, potentially causing complications such as miscarriage or congenital defects. Pregnant women in regions with monkeypox outbreaks should take extra precautions to avoid exposure to the virus.

Consumption of Infected Meat

When you consume meat infected with the monkeypox virus, you risk ingesting the virus directly. The virus can survive in animal tissues, particularly undercooked meat, and once inside the body, it can begin to replicate, leading to infection.

This mode of transmission is particularly relevant in regions where bush meat is commonly consumed. Ingesting the virus allows it to enter your bloodstream through the digestive tract. From there, it can spread to various tissues, causing the symptoms associated with monkeypox.

Initial Symptoms of Monkeypox

Monkeypox is characterized by a range of symptoms that typically develop within one to three weeks after exposure to the virus. These symptoms can vary in intensity and duration, often starting mildly before progressing to more severe stages.

The incubation period for monkeypox, during which the virus is present but symptoms have not yet appeared, typically ranges from 6 to 13 days. However, it can vary from as short as 5 days to as long as 21 days. Individuals are not contagious during this period.

Fever

A fever is often the first symptom you might notice if you’ve contracted monkeypox, which can be moderate to high, 38.5°C (101.3°F) or higher, lasting several days. It begins suddenly as your body’s immune system responds to the virus.

As the fever progresses, it is usually accompanied by other early symptoms such as chills, muscle aches, or fatigue. The presence of a fever is a key indicator that your body is actively combating the virus.

Headache

Headaches are a common early symptom of monkeypox, often occurring alongside fever. These headaches can range from mild discomfort to more severe, throbbing pain, persisting for several days and contributing to the overall feeling of malaise.

You might notice that the headache worsens with physical activity or bright lights. This symptom, though nonspecific, is a sign that your body is under stress from the infection.

Muscle Aches

Muscle aches, also known as myalgia, are common when monkeypox begins. You may experience widespread discomfort, particularly in the larger muscle groups such as the thighs, arms, shoulders, and lower back.

This muscle pain is part of your body’s inflammatory response to the virus. As your immune system fights the infection, it releases chemicals that can cause inflammation and pain in these areas.

Backaches can be a particularly uncomfortable symptom during the initial stages of monkeypox. You may feel pain in the lower back or throughout the entire spine. This pain is often dull and persistent, making it difficult to find a comfortable position or sleep well.

Swollen Lumps

Swollen lymph nodes are a distinctive early symptom of monkeypox that sets it apart from many other viral infections. You might notice tenderness and swelling of the lymph nodes, particularly around the neck, armpits, and groin region.

This swelling is your body’s response to the virus as it produces immune cells to fight the infection. The lymph nodes can become quite enlarged and sensitive to touch, making moving or pressing on the affected areas uncomfortable.

Chills and Sweating

Chills often accompany fevers and can be one of the first signs that something is wrong. You may experience sudden, intense bouts of shivering, even in warm environments. These chills are your body’s attempt to raise its internal temperature to fight off the virus.

The chills can leave you feeling cold and uncomfortable, prompting you to seek warmth under blankets or additional clothing. This symptom typically alternates with periods of sweating as your body struggles to maintain its temperature during the initial phase of the infection.

Exhaustion

Exhaustion is a hallmark of the early stages of monkeypox. It leaves you feeling drained of energy and accompanied by a noticeable sense of weakness. This profound fatigue and muscle weakness can make even simple tasks feel overwhelming, and you may find yourself needing more rest than usual.

This overwhelming tiredness is your body’s way of conserving energy to fight the virus. It usually accompanies other early symptoms like fever and muscle aches, making them among the most noticeable signs that your body is battling an infection.

Progressive Symptoms

After the initial symptoms of monkeypox, such as fever and muscle aches, more specific and recognizable symptoms begin to appear within a few days. This period is considered most contagious due to the risk of direct contact.

Rashes

You may notice small, flat, discolored spots on your skin, typically concentrated on the face, palms of the hands, soles of the feet, and mucous membranes, including the mouth and genital areas. This rash marks the beginning of the virus’s more visible and contagious phase.

The distribution can also extend to other body parts, but the face and extremities are usually the most affected areas rather than the trunk found in other diseases. The concentration and severity can vary depending on the individual and the strain of the virus.

Sores

Following the appearance of the rash, the affected areas develop into lesions. These lesions are raised, fluid-filled bumps that can vary in size and number across different body parts. As these lesions develop, they may become more painful and sensitive, signaling the virus’s progression within your skin.

In comparison, chickenpox lesions are smaller and more superficial and appear consecutively across the body, while monkeypox lesions are larger and deeper. Monkeypox lesions progress uniformly while healing at the same time and are primarily focused on the face, palms, soles, and mucous membranes.

Pus-Filled Bumps

As the lesions progress, they evolve into pustules, which are pus-filled bumps. These bumps are often firm to the touch and can cause significant discomfort due to their size and pressure on the surrounding skin.

Additionally, the pustules are more numerous and larger than the earlier lesions. They can create a bumpy texture on the skin, often causing pain and irritation.

Scabs

Scabs are a later-stage symptom of monkeypox, forming as the pustules dry out and begin to heal. These scabs typically develop after the blisters burst, leaving behind a hardened layer of skin that eventually falls off as part of the skin healing process.

As the scabs form, they mark the end of the infectious period, but the skin underneath may remain sensitive or discolored temporarily. It’s crucial to avoid picking at them to minimize scars and secondary infections, which can prolong the healing process.

Other Symptoms of Monkeypox

In addition to the more common symptoms, monkeypox can present with various other issues affecting different body parts. These may occur along with the primary signs of the virus or develop as the illness progresses.

Sore Throat

A sore throat is a common symptom you may experience during the course of monkeypox. It can begin as a mild irritation but may progress to more significant discomfort as the virus affects the mucous membranes. Swallowing might become painful, and you may notice redness or swelling in the throat.

The sore throat can make eating and drinking difficult, leading to additional discomfort. This symptom is often accompanied by other respiratory issues, such as a cough or congestion, further aggravating the irritation.

Cough

A cough may develop as part of the respiratory symptoms associated with monkeypox. It can start as a dry, persistent cough that may worsen over time and become more frequent.

The cough might be triggered by the virus’s effect on your respiratory system, leading to inflammation and irritation in the airways. This symptom can be particularly bothersome, especially if it interferes with your ability to sleep or engage in daily activities.

Pink Eye

Eye issues, such as redness, pain, or swelling, can occur during monkeypox. You might experience conjunctivitis (pink eye), where the eyes become inflamed and produce a discharge. This can cause discomfort and increase sensitivity to light, making it difficult to focus or keep your eyes open for extended periods.

Eye symptoms are less common but can be particularly distressing when they occur. These issues often accompany other symptoms like headaches or fever, adding to the overall sense of illness.

Stomach Issues

Gastrointestinal problems may arise during monkeypox, manifesting as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. You might feel a general sense of discomfort or pain in the abdominal area, making eating and digestion difficult.

Gastrointestinal issues are often accompanied by other systemic symptoms, such as fever or exhaustion, exacerbating the overall severity of the illness. These symptoms can lead to dehydration and further weaken the body as it fights the virus.

Shortness of Breath

Shortness of breath is a concerning symptom that may develop in more severe cases of monkeypox. You may find it difficult to breathe deeply, feeling as if you cannot get enough air, which can cause anxiety and panic.

The difficulty in breathing can vary in intensity, sometimes becoming more pronounced with physical activity or lying down. This indicates that the virus affects your lungs and airways, potentially leading to more serious complications.

Symptoms Observed from the New Outbreak

Recent monkeypox outbreaks have shown a broader range of symptoms compared to previous cases. Notably, lesions have been observed in unusual locations such as the genital, perianal, or oral areas, causing significant pain during daily activities. Some cases have also presented with only a single lesion or without the typical early symptoms like fever or muscle aches, making early detection more challenging and potentially increasing the risk of transmission.

Unusual Sores Location

In recent outbreaks, lesions have appeared in unusual locations, such as the genital, perianal, or oral areas. These locations can cause significant pain, particularly during activities like eating, urination, or bowel movements.

The pain associated with these lesions may be more intense and localized, differing from the widespread rash seen in earlier cases. You may find these lesions more difficult to identify as symptoms of monkeypox, especially if they resemble other skin conditions like herpes or syphilis.

Single Sore

Unlike previous outbreaks where multiple lesions were common, recent cases have sometimes presented with only a single lesion. This single lesion can be more challenging to diagnose as monkeypox, especially if it resembles a pimple or insect bite.

If you have a single lesion, it may not seem severe enough to warrant concern, but it can still indicate an active monkeypox infection. Being around crowded areas or engaging in an activity that might expose you to direct contact should be enough reason to seek medical guidance.

Absence of Initial Symptoms

In some recent cases, the typical systemic symptoms like fever, headache, and muscle aches have been absent. You may experience the skin manifestations without the usual accompanying signs of illness, making it harder to recognize the infection early.

Without the usual early warning signs, you might not realize you have monkeypox until the lesions become more pronounced. This can delay both diagnosis and isolation, increasing the risk of spreading the virus to others.

Confirming Monkeypox

Accurate diagnosis of monkeypox is crucial for effective management and containment of the virus. Several processes are involved in confirming monkeypox and differentiating it from other conditions, such as smallpox and chickenpox.

Clinical Assessment

When you visit a healthcare provider with concerns about monkeypox, they will start with a physical examination and review your medical history. This initial assessment focuses on the symptoms you’re experiencing, such as rashes, fever, and swollen lymph nodes. Any lesion present will be examined, considering the areas involved.

Your doctor will also inquire about any recent travel history or exposure to animals and individuals known to be infected. This step is crucial for ruling out other illnesses that might present with similar symptoms and for assessing the likelihood of monkeypox based on your history and current health condition.

Virus DNA Test

Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) Test is a highly specific test used to diagnose monkeypox. During this test, a sample of material from your skin lesions, or sometimes blood, is collected.

The PCR technique amplifies the virus’s DNA if present, allowing for very accurate detection even if only a small amount of viral DNA is available. Because of its reliability and precision, this method is considered the gold standard for diagnosing monkeypox.

Blood Analysis

Serological tests involve analyzing your blood to detect antibodies or specific markers that your immune system produces in response to the monkeypox virus. These tests can help determine if you have been exposed to the virus and have developed an immune response.

However, serological tests might not be as useful during the early stages of infection because antibodies take time to develop. They are more often used for epidemiological studies or to confirm past infections rather than for immediate diagnosis.

Treatments for Monkeypox

Effective treatment of monkeypox involves a combination of self-care measures and medical interventions. These options help alleviate the symptoms and reduce the risk of spreading the virus to others.

Rest and Hydration

If you are diagnosed with monkeypox, resting is crucial for your recovery. Your body needs energy to fight off the infection, and rest reduces the strain on your immune system, allowing it to function more effectively.

Staying well-hydrated is also important because fever, one of the common symptoms of monkeypox, can lead to dehydration. Drinking plenty of fluids helps maintain the balance of electrolytes in your body and supports overall health during your recovery period.

Vaccination After Exposure

The post-exposure vaccination strategy is a well-known approach for smallpox, which has historically been used to reduce the severity of the disease if administered shortly after exposure. However, similar strategies have been adapted for monkeypox due to the relatedness of the two viruses.

The vaccine helps your immune system recognize and combat the virus during the incubation period, potentially preventing the development of symptoms or significantly reducing their intensity.

If given between four and 14 days after exposure, the vaccine may still offer protection, though it may not entirely prevent symptoms. Instead, it can lessen the severity of the disease, helping to reduce complications and the likelihood of spreading the virus to others.

Over-the-Counter Medications

Over-the-counter (OTC) medications can help manage the symptoms of monkeypox, particularly the pain and discomfort caused by fever, headaches, and muscle aches. You might use common pain relievers to reduce fever and alleviate body pain.

OTC antihistamines may also be used to reduce itching associated with the rash and lesions. While these treatments don’t target the virus directly, they can significantly improve your quality of life while your body fights the infection.

Antivirus Medication

Antiviral medications prescribed for smallpox can be used to treat monkeypox, particularly in severe cases or for individuals at high risk of complications. It targets the Orthopoxvirus genus, which includes the monkeypox virus, smallpox virus (variola), vaccinia virus, and other related poxviruses.

It works by inhibiting the viral protein needed for the virus to spread, thereby reducing the severity and duration of the illness. While supportive care remains the primary treatment for most monkeypox cases, antivirals provide an additional therapeutic option to minimize effects and reduce the duration.

Smallpox Antibody Treatment

Vaccinia Immune Globulin (VIG) might be considered for severe cases of monkeypox. VIG is an immunotherapy derived from the plasma of individuals immunized with the vaccinia vaccine, the same vaccine used against smallpox.

This treatment can help your immune system fight the monkeypox virus more effectively. It is typically reserved for patients who are at high risk of severe disease, such as those with weakened immune systems or certain underlying health conditions.

Preventing Monkeypox

Preventing monkeypox involves a multi-faceted approach, including vaccination and personal protective practices. Effective prevention minimizes the risk of transmission, safeguards public health, and controls potential outbreaks.

Vaccination

Vaccination is one of the most effective ways to prevent monkeypox. Due to the similarity between the two viruses, vaccines used against smallpox have also been found to be around 85% effective in preventing monkeypox.

Getting vaccinated is a proactive step if you are at higher risk of exposure, such as healthcare workers or those living in or traveling to areas where monkeypox is common.

Protective Measures

Taking protective measures is essential to prevent monkeypox transmission. Avoid close, unprotected physical contact with individuals who have symptoms of monkeypox, such as rashes or flu-like symptoms.

If you are a healthcare provider or caring for someone with monkeypox, wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) like gloves, gowns, and masks. Also, avoid contact with materials that have been contaminated with the virus, such as bedding and clothing.

Another critical preventive measure is not handling or eating bushmeat, particularly in regions where monkeypox is more common. The virus can be transmitted from infected animals to humans, so avoiding bushmeat reduces the risk of exposure from animal sources.

Proper Hygiene

Maintaining proper hygiene is key to preventing the spread of monkeypox. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially after contact with sick individuals, animals, or unknown surfaces outside your home.

If soap and water are not readily available, use hand sanitizer. Keep your environment clean by regularly disinfecting surfaces and safely disposing of any potentially contaminated materials.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the primary symptoms of monkeypox?

The primary symptoms of monkeypox start with flu-like signs such as fever, headache, muscle aches, and fatigue. These initial symptoms typically develop within 5 to 21 days after exposure to the virus and can include high fever, chills, and sweats, causing significant discomfort and weakness.

Following the flu-like symptoms, swollen lymph nodes usually appear in the neck, armpits, or groin. A distinctive rash then develops, evolving from flat, red spots to fluid-filled blisters, eventually forming scabs that can leave scars.

How is monkeypox transmitted from animals to humans?

Monkeypox is transmitted from animals to humans primarily through bites or scratches from infected animals, often rodents or primates. Direct contact with the animal’s blood, bodily fluids, or fur, as well as handling or consuming improperly cooked meat from infected animals, can also spread the virus.

This zoonotic transmission emphasizes the need for caution when dealing with bushmeat in regions where monkeypox is prevalent. Avoiding contact with potential animal carriers and ensuring that any meat is thoroughly cooked are essential preventive measures to reduce the risk of infection.

What steps can I take to prevent contracting monkeypox?

Prevention of monkeypox includes vaccination, which is highly effective, especially for high-risk groups such as healthcare workers and travelers to endemic regions.

Adopting protective measures, like avoiding close contact with infected individuals and using personal protective equipment (PPE), is crucial. Regular hand washing, using hand sanitizer, and maintaining a clean environment also significantly reduce the risk of transmission.

How is monkeypox diagnosed by healthcare providers?

Diagnosing monkeypox involves a combination of physical examination, reviewing medical history, and laboratory tests. Healthcare providers look for characteristic symptoms like rashes and swollen lymph nodes and inquire about recent travel and exposure history.

Confirmatory diagnosis is usually made using Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) tests on skin lesion samples, and sometimes, serological tests to detect antibodies can be used to support the diagnosis.