SHAWANO, WI-With the recent communications of the Monkeypox Virus, the Shawano-Menominee Counties Health Department (SMCHD) is sending out these frequently asked questions and resources. Monkeypox was discovered in 1958 when two outbreaks of a pox-like disease occurred in colonies of monkeys kept for research. Despite being named “monkeypox,” the source of the disease remains unknown. However, African rodents and non-human primates (like monkeys) might harbor the virus and infect people.
WHAT IS IT? Monkeypox is a rare disease caused by infection with the monkeypox virus. Monkeypox virus is part of the same family of viruses as variola (ver–ry–o–la) virus, the same virus that causes smallpox. Monkeypox symptoms are similar to smallpox symptoms, but milder, and monkeypox is rarely fatal.
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF MONKEYPOX? Fever, Headache, Muscle aches and backache, Swollen lymph nodes, Chills, Exhaustion, Respiratory symptoms (e.g., sore throat, nasal congestion, or cough). A rash that can look like pimples or blisters that appears on the face, inside the mouth, and on other parts of the body, like the hands, feet, chest, or private areas of the body.
o The rash goes through different stages before healing completely.
o The illness typically lasts 2-4 weeks.
o Sometimes, people get a rash first, followed by other symptoms. Others only experience a rash
o Symptoms usually appear one to two weeks after infection.
HOW COULD I CATCH THIS? Monkeypox does not spread easily between people; however, anyone in close contact with a person with monkeypox can get it and should take steps to protect themselves. People who do not have monkeypox symptoms cannot spread the virus to others.
o The virus can spread from person-to-person through direct contact with the infectious rash, scabs, or
body fluids. It also can be spread by respiratory secretions during prolonged, face-to-face contact, or
during intimate physical contact, such as kissing, cuddling, or sex. In addition, pregnant people can
spread the virus to their fetus through the placenta.
o Touching items (such as clothing or linens) that previously touched the infectious rash or body fluids.
o It’s also possible for people to get monkeypox from infected animals, either by being scratched or bitten
by the animal or by eating meat or using products from an infected animal.
Monkeypox can spread from the time symptoms start until the rash has fully healed and a fresh layer of skin has formed.
The illness typically lasts 2-4 weeks.
WHAT DO I DO IF IT THINK I MAY HAVE IT?
• See a healthcare provider if you notice a new or unexplained rash or other monkeypox symptoms.
• Avoid close contact (including intimate physical contact) with others until a healthcare provider examines you.
• Avoid close contact with pets or other animals until a healthcare provider examines you.
• Until results are confirmed, stay isolated and observe other prevention practices until your rash has healed, all
scabs have fallen off, and a fresh layer of intact skin has formed.
o Isolation and Infection Control: Home | Monkeypox | Poxvirus | CDC
• Remain isolated if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms, including sore throat, nasal congestion, or
cough. Only go out to see a healthcare provider or for an emergency and avoid public transportation.
• If you need to leave isolation, you should cover the rash and wear a well-fitting mask.
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