- mice,
- rats,
- and rabbits.
The first case of monkeypox in humans was reported in 1970, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Atlanta. The first reported cases of monkeypox in the U.S. occured in June 2003 when monkeypox was reported in prairie dogs and humans.
According to WFAA TV in Dallas, TX, the spread of the monkeypox in the U.S. appears to be linked to U.S. Global Exotics in Arlington, TX. Investigators believe the infected prairie dogs may have shipped to a dealer in Chicago, IL from the Arlington warehouse.
Monkeypox is caused by Monkeypox virus, a member of the orthopoxvirus group of viruses. Orthopoxvirus has been found in several African rodents. Other types of orthopoxviruses that infect humans include:
- the variola or smallpox virus,
- vaccinia--the vacine used to immunize against smallpox,
- and cowpox viruses.
Monkeypox is not related to chickenpox (varicella) which is a member of the herpes family of viruses.
Signs and Symptoms of Monkeypox Virus
The symptoms of monkeypox in humans are quite similar to those of smallpox; the main difference being the enlargement of the lymph nodes that is associated with monkeypox that is not present in smallpox. A person who is exposed to the monkeypox virus may begin to feel ill about 12 days after exposure. The first signs of monkeypox infection are:
- fever,
- headache,
- muscle aches,
- backache,
- swollen lymph nodes,
- general discomfort,
- and exhaustion.
One to three days, occasionally longer, after the fever begins a rash of raised bumps will appear. Most often the rash appears first on the face; however, it can appear on other parts of the body. The raised bumps will develop into lesions that will eventually crust and fall off over the course of the illness which usually lasts from two to four weeks.
Because the monkeypox virus is so new in the U.S., the CDC is unable to predict the effect this disease will have on people in America. In rural Africa, where most people are medically underserved, there is about a 10 percent fatality rate from monkeypox. Unfortunately, there is no treatment for monkeypox at this time.
What Can You Do to Avoid Monkeypox Infection?
Preliminary investigations indicate that the currently infected patients became ill after close contact with infected pet prairie dogs. A few patients may have become ill through contact with other infected animals including a Gambian giant rat and a rabbit. The CDC cannot rule out human-to-human transmission at this time.
Here are some steps you can take to lower your risk of monkeypox exposure:
- Avoid contact with unknown animals that could be infected with monkeypox.
If you suspect a family member may have been exposed to monkeypox:
- Make sure that person uses tissues, and avoids spraying respiratory droplets in the air of your home. Give the person a separate trash can and bag, and sterilize all dishes and cooking utensils.
- Make sure everyone in your home follows good handwashing practices.
- Avoid any face-to-face contact with anyone who could have been exposed to monkeypox.
- Avoid direct contact with bodily fluids of anyone who may be exposed or infected.
- Avoid contact with items that may be contaminated such as bedding or clothing.
