What is Monkeypox?
Monkeypox is a disease caused by the Monkeypox virus, an illness within the same family as Smallpox. Monkeypox has been around since the mid-1900s, when the first outbreaks occurred in two colonies. Still, scientists have not uncovered the source of the Monkeypox virus.
How is Monkeypox Spread?
Monkeypox is spread through either physical touch or exposure to respiratory secretions from anyone carrying the virus.
Symptoms of Monkeypox
Headache
Fever
Chills
Fatigue
Sore throat
Nasal congestion
Cough
Pimple or blister-like lesions that may be on the genitals, anus, feet, hands, chest, face
Monkeypox Treatments
The CDC has shared that, at this time, there are no current treatment plans for Monkeypox symptoms. Severely affected patients have been treated with medications previously used to treat Smallpox. The current Smallpox medications are:
Tecovirimat (TPOXX)
Vaccinia Immune Globulin Intravenous (VIGIV)
Cidofovir (Vistide)
Brincidofovir (CMX001/Tembexa)
Who Can Get the Vaccine?
Monkeypox vaccines are currently only for patients who have either been exposed or have a high chance of catching the virus. JYNNEOS is the vaccine approved by the FDA for emergency use in those 18 years and older. It is a two-dose vaccine administered to the patient 28 days apart.
Preventing Monkeypox
The CDC recommends three steps to help prevent Monkeypox:
Avoid close contact with people with a rash that looks like Monkeypox.
Avoid contact with items that a person with Monkeypox has used.
Wash your hands often.
Once more information about Monkeypox has been released, you can count on us at DSD Pharmacy for high-quality, factual information.