Mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) is a rare disease because of a zoonoticvirus.
This means it can be spread from animals to humans.
Mpox is because of a virus that is closely linked to the virus that causessmallpox.
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While its symptoms often mimic those of smallpox, mpox is likely to be less severe.
It can also infect the fetus when a pregnant person has the disease.
There is no approved treatment for mpox, so care generally involves symptom management.
This article discusses mpox symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment.
A clade is a group of organisms that have a common ancestor.
The disease may begin without symptoms.
The mpox virus can make your lymph nodes swell (lymphadenopathy), while smallpox does not affect them.
Mpox lesions follow a predictable set of stages similar to those that occur in smallpox.
It can also be transmitted from contaminated materials to humans.
Also, a pregnant person can pass the virus to the fetus.
An infected person is considered contagious when they develop symptoms until their blisters scab over and dry.
The presence of swollen lymph nodes can be used to distinguish mpox from other diseases.
A laboratory test can provide a definitive diagnosis of mpox.
Samples taken from the lesions or their fluids provide the most accurate results.
Treatment
There are no specific treatments for infections of the mpox virus.
However, patients may benefit from therapy with antivirals made to treat smallpox.
This option is usually reserved for immunocompromised people who become infected.
JYNNEOS was approved in 2019 for the prevention of both smallpox and mpox.
ACAM2000 is a single-dose vaccine that was first approved in 2007 for smallpox.
However, it’s possible for some people to experience severe symptoms and require medical treatment.
Severe cases are most likely to occur among children.
In its early stages, mpox can mimic many other types of infections, such as chicken pox.
Getting an accurate diagnosis is key to receiving the right treatment for your condition.
If you are diagnosed with mpox, follow the advice of your healthcare provider regarding treatment.
A pregnant person can pass the infection on to the fetus.
Mpox usually resolves on its own within two to four weeks.
Problems are rare, and often limited to children and those with other health problems.
A Word From Verywell
Your risk of contracting mpox is relatively low.
While you’re sick, maintain your body’s needs for proper hydration and nutrition to promote healing.
Human-to-human transmission is most likely when you interact with a person who has symptoms of the disease.
Animal-to-human transmission usually occurs after a bite, scratch, or eating an infected animal.
There is no known cure for mpox.
Treatment often includes the same antiviral drugs used for smallpox.
These therapies can help reduce symptoms.
While mpox is related to smallpox, its symptoms are less severe.
Most cases of mpox resolve on their own within two to four weeks without leaving serious side effects.
The case fatality risk is about 3 to 6%.
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Published online May 24, 2022. doi:10.7326/M22-1581
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