Monkeypox, What Is It?

Definition
Monkeypox is a disease caused by the monkeypox virus. Initially, this virus infected animals, as it became an epidemic among a group of monkeys in 1958. Then, in 1970 in the Republic of the Congo, Africa, the monkeypox virus first infected humans, transmitted from monkeys to humans. This is what makes the monkeypox virus a zoonosis, a virus that spreads from animals to humans.

 

Signs & Symptoms
The symptoms of the monkeypox virus first include fever, followed by the appearance of water-filled pustules all over the body, similar to chickenpox. However, a distinctive feature of monkeypox is the swelling of lymph nodes, or lymphadenopathy, in areas such as the neck, armpits, thighs, or groin. Other symptoms may include weakness and discomfort in the body.

 

Prevention
Preventive measures to avoid the monkeypox virus include avoiding contact with sick animals or those positive for monkeypox. Additionally, it is important to avoid contact with patients infected with monkeypox, and such patients should be isolated. Furthermore, preventive measures include following the 6-step handwashing technique recommended by WHO, as per the Ministry of Health's guidelines.

 

Therefore, for all friends of Hermina, due to the increasing cases of monkeypox, it is advisable to maintain vigilance by practicing good personal hygiene, especially by washing hands before engaging in any activities.