Monkeypox (MPX) is a viral disease that's transmittable between people or people and certain animals. MPX has seen a global rise in outbreaks, even in regions where the disease isn't commonly found.
MPX symptoms may start within 3 weeks of exposure to the virus, and the illness can last from 2 to 4 weeks. Some individuals may be at higher risk for severe cases due to co-morbidities or underlying health issues.
Signs and Symptoms of Monkeypox
Exhaustion
Fever
Muscle aches and back aches
Chills
Swollen lymph nodes
Headache
Respiratory symptoms (e.g., cough, nasal congestion, or sore throat)
A rash that looks like pimples or blisters and may be painful or itch. It may appear on or near the genitals or anus but could be on other areas like the face, mouth, chest, hands, or feet. The rash will go through several stages, including scabs, before healing.
It's possible to experience all or partial symptoms. Some may experience flu-like symptoms before the rash, usually 1-4 days later, and some may experience the rash first, followed by other symptoms. Some only experience a rash.
Transmission
MPX can be transmitted to anyone through close face-to-face, skin-to-skin, and/or sexual contact, including:
Direct contact with MPX rash, scabs, or body fluids from a person with MP
Touching objects, fabrics, and surfaces that someone with MPX used
Contact with respiratory secretions from someone with MPX
Intimate contact with someone with MPX (intercourse, kissing, hugging, etc.)
The use of personal protective equipment (PPE) by healthcare professionals in the healthcare setting provides a great deal of protection against monkeypox.
Prevention
Avoid face-to-face, skin-to-skin contact with those who have an MPX-looking rash
Avoid contact with objects and materials that a person with MPX has used
Wash your hands often
Wash with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, specifically before eating or touching your face and after restroom use
MPX Exposure and/or Transmission
HCPs with occupational exposure to MPX should have an assessment and management plan in place.
Notify your healthcare provider, the facility, and ShiftMed if you have symptoms of MPX or close contact with someone with MPX.
HCPs with confirmed MPX should isolate at home for the duration of the infectious period, which typically lasts two to four weeks or until symptoms subside.
The facility will report a positive MPX case to the state health department, and the health department will monitor the exposed HCP for 21 days.
At this time, testing is done only in a laboratory, and confirmatory MPX PCR testing is only completed at the CDC.
Treatment
There are currently no treatments for MPX. However, antiviral drugs and vaccines may be used to prevent and treat MPX.
Antivirals, such as tecovirimat (TPOXX), may be advised for individuals more likely to get severely ill, such as immunocompromised patients. Most individuals with monkeypox fully recover within 2 to 4 weeks without needing medical treatment.
If you have symptoms of MPX or close contact with someone with MPX, notify your healthcare provider and ShiftMed with updates accordingly.
Currently, the CDC manages MPX with assistance from state health departments. ShiftMed will continue to monitor any changes to isolation recommendations for positive cases and provide guidance for post-exposure monitoring and treatment.