The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared mpox (monkey pox) a public emergency of international concern. This comes amid a rapid increase in the spread of the disease in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo and its detection in neighboring countries.
What is Mpox?
According to the WHO, Mpox is a viral disease caused by the monkeypox virus. Mpox can be transmitted to humans through physical contact with someone who is infectious, with contaminated materials, or with infected animals.
What are the main symptoms?
Common symptoms of mpox are a skin rash or mucosal lesions that can last 2-4 weeks accompanied by fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, low energy, and swollen lymph nodes.
How to determine if you are infected:
If you have a rash on your skin, don't immediately assume you have monkeypox. First get tested for the virus at a certified lab.
Currently, there are 15 VRDLs equipped to test for monkeypox, including the National Institute of Virology (NIV). Meanwhile, the Center is working on developing a test kit for monkeypox.
Here's what to do if you're infected with monkeypox:
Isolate: If you are infected with the virus, symptoms will begin to appear within 2 weeks. They are said to be contagious until the symptoms go away and the rashes and lesions heal. It is extremely essential to isolate yourself until then.
