1 What is Monkeypox?
- Monkeypox is a viral disease similar to smallpox but generally milder.
- Symptoms include fever, swollen lymph nodes, rash, and skin lesions.
2 How does it spread?
- It spreads through close contact with an infected person, bodily fluids, respiratory droplets, or contaminated surfaces.
- It can also spread from animals to humans through bites or consumption of infected meat.
3 Current outbreak situation
- Recent outbreaks have reported cases in non-endemic regions (outside Africa, where monkeypox is usually found).
- The World Health Organization (WHO) is closely monitoring the unusual spread.
4 Who is at higher risk?
- People in close contact with infected individuals, healthcare workers, and those with weakened immune systems.
- Children and pregnant women are at higher risk of severe complications.
5 How can you prevent it?
- Smallpox vaccines provide some protection.
- Avoid direct contact with infected individuals, practice good hygiene, and wash hands frequently.
