Monkeypox is a rare disease that's recently caused some panic in some parts of the world. It affects many in central and western Africa every year. However, outbreaks in non-endemic countries are causing worry of another widespread pandemic.

So, what are monkeypox symptoms, and how do you know you have the disease?

The Basics of Monkeypox

This disease is a product of the monkeypox virus. The virus belongs to the same genus of the virus that causes smallpox, so the worry is understandable.

If you suspect you have monkeypox, the first thing to think about is your exposure. Generally, this virus spreads to humans through infected animals. It typically transmits through bites and bodily fluids. However, it can also spread between humans through direct skin contact or bodily fluids. It even spreads with prolonged face-to-face contact.

The disease starts with a lengthy incubation period of seven to 14 days. In rare cases, the incubation period can last up to 21 days. During this time, an infected person is not contagious. But, transmission is possible in the time that follows.

During incubation, detection is not always possible by physical appearance alone. As a result, an online general physician consultation won't be able to provide clarity about the disease until symptoms occur after incubation.

Monkeypox Symptoms

The earliest symptoms of the disease are fever, headache, and muscle pain. You might also experience extreme exhaustion and chills. Many of the signs of monkeypox are similar to smallpox. General symptoms are common for other health conditions, too.

What sets monkeypox apart from smallpox and other diseases is what comes after the fever. Monkeypox causes the lymph nodes to swell. That doesn't occur with smallpox.

After that, you may develop rashes. They start on the face and eventually spread to other body parts. Lesions will form and go through multiple stages before scabbing over and falling off.

Getting Medical Assistance

If you think that you have monkeypox, seek help through an online general physician consultation or visit your nearest hospital. This disease has the potential to be deadly. Talk with a physician about your symptoms and see if testing is necessary.

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