Monkeypox (Mpox): Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Monkeypox, also referred to as Mpox, is a viral zoonotic disease caused by the monkeypox virus, which belongs to the Orthopoxvirus genus— the same family as the smallpox virus. Though monkeypox is less severe than smallpox, it shares similar clinical symptoms. First identified in monkey colonies in 1958, the first human case of monkeypox was recorded in 1970.

With rising concerns globally due to periodic outbreaks, it is crucial to understand the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for this disease.

What Causes Monkeypox?

Monkeypox is caused by the monkeypox virus, transmitted to humans through:

Direct contact with blood, bodily fluids, or skin/mucosal lesions of infected animals.
Human-to-human transmission via respiratory droplets, skin contact, or sexual contact.
Contact with contaminated materials such as clothing, towels, or bedding.

In rare cases, it can be transmitted from a pregnant woman to the fetus or newborn through skin-to-skin contact during or after childbirth.

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What Are the Symptoms of Monkeypox?

The symptoms of monkeypox are similar to those of measles or smallpox, but with additional features like swollen lymph nodes. Symptoms usually develop 5–13 days after exposure, but they can take up to 21 days.

Early Symptoms:

Fever
Headache
Muscle aches
Back pain
Chills
Swollen lymph nodes
Exhaustion

Rash and Lesions:

After the fever subsides, a rash develops—typically beginning on the face and then spreading to the rest of the body, especially on the palms and soles.
The lesions can be flat or slightly raised, filled with clear or yellow fluid.
They crust, dry out, and fall off within 2–4 weeks.
Lesions may also appear in sensitive areas such as the mouth, eyes, and genitals.

Mpox Disease vs Smallpox: What’s the Difference?

Though monkeypox and smallpox belong to the same virus family, monkeypox is generally milder. The smallpox virus has been eradicated globally, but monkeypox persists in certain regions and resurfaces occasionally.

Unlike smallpox, monkeypox causes lymphadenopathy (swollen lymph nodes) and has a lower fatality rate (1–10%). However, children, immunocompromised individuals, and pregnant women are more at risk for severe symptoms.

Mpox Treatment: Is There a Cure?

Currently, there is no specific mpox cure. However, the disease often resolves on its own within 2 to 4 weeks.

Supportive Treatment:

Hydration
Nutritional support
Pain and fever management
Treatment of secondary infections if they arise

Mpox Medicine:

In severe cases or in high-risk individuals, antiviral medications such as Tecovirimat (TPOXX), originally developed for smallpox, may be prescribed. However, these are not universally available and are typically administered under medical supervision.

How to Prevent Mpox Infection

Avoid close physical contact with infected individuals.
Do not share personal items such as towels or bedding.
Wear protective gear when caring for infected patients.
Practice good hand hygiene.
Avoid contact with animals that could harbor the virus, particularly rodents and primates.

A smallpox vaccine has been found to be 85% effective against monkeypox, and certain countries now offer this vaccine to high-risk groups.

Symptoms of Measles vs. Monkeypox

Many confuse monkeypox with other viral infections like measles, especially due to rash similarities. Here's how they differ:

Symptom	Measles	Monkeypox
Rash	Starts on face, spreads	Starts on face, spreads
Fever	High and sudden	Moderate to high
Lymph Node Swelling	Rare	Common
Lesions	Flat red spots	Fluid-filled pustules
Duration	7–10 days	2–4 weeks

When to See a Doctor

Contact your healthcare provider if:

You develop fever and rash.
You have had close contact with someone diagnosed with monkeypox.
You suspect exposure to contaminated materials or sexual contact with someone infected.

Early medical consultation helps prevent complications and reduces the risk of spreading the virus.

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Conclusion

Mpox (Monkeypox) is a preventable yet potentially serious disease that can affect individuals of all ages. While there is no specific cure, timely diagnosis and supportive care can ensure a smooth recovery. Awareness of mpox treatment options, transmission modes, and symptom recognition is key to limiting the spread of this disease. With the support of vaccines and evolving medical therapies, we can better manage and reduce the impact of monkeypox worldwide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Monkeypox can spread by touching clothing, bedding, towels, or surfaces that have been in contact with the rash or bodily fluids of an infected person.

Yes, children are more susceptible to severe symptoms of monkeypox compared to healthy adults. Early diagnosis and medical care are essential.

Avoid contact with infected individuals or animals, practice good hygiene, and avoid sharing personal items. In some countries, a smallpox vaccine may be recommended for high-risk individuals.

Diagnosis is typically based on symptoms, patient history, and confirmed through PCR testing of lesion samples.

Yes, Medicover Hospitals provides comprehensive consultation, diagnosis, and supportive treatment for monkeypox, including access to specialists in infectious diseases and dermatology. Contact your nearest Medicover facility for more information.