In the News All About Monkeypox – Part I

You can’t turn on the television anymore without hearing about the latest infectious disease: Monkeypox. While there is a lot of information all over the Internet about Monkeypox, here we break down what you need to know, what you should do and how to prevent the spread of this disease.

So, what is Monkeypox?

According to the CDC, “Monkeypox is a rare disease caused by the monkeypox virus. It leads to rash and flu-like symptoms. Monkeypox was discovered in 1958 when two outbreaks of a pox-like disease occurred in groups of monkeys being used for research. It’s spread mainly through human contact with infected rodents but can sometimes be spread through skin-to-skin contact with an infected person.”

How common is it?

Monkeypox is actually rare. But the number of cases is increasing in Africa, as well as in regions that haven’t seen these infections before. 

Where is it found? 

For decades, Monkeypox was only found in Africa. But 2022 has brought outbreaks to regions outside of Africa, like Europe, the Americas and Australia. 

Who is affected by Monkeypox? 

According to the CDC, “Anyone can get monkeypox. In Africa, most cases are among children under 15 years old. Outside of Africa, the disease appears to be more common in men who have sex with men, but there are numerous cases in people who don’t fall into that category.” 

(Continued in Part II…)