What is Monkeypox?
Monkeypox is a disease caused by the Monkeypox virus. This illness is also related to the Smallpox virus. Monkeypox was first discovered in 1958 when the first outbreaks occurred in two colonies. Scientists are still unaware of the origins of Monkeypox.
How is Monkeypox Spread?
Monkeypox exposure occurs from direct physical contact from person to person as well as coming in contact with respiratory secretions.
Symptoms of Monkeypox
Headache
Fever
Chills
Fatigue
Sore throat
Nasal congestion
Cough
Pimple or blister-like lesions that may be on the genitals, anus, feet, hands, chest, face
Monkeypox Treatments
According to the CDC, there aren’t viable treatments for Monkeypox. In severe cases, Smallpox medication has been used to treat Monkeypox. The current Smallpox medications are:
Tecovirimat (TPOXX)
Vaccinia Immune Globulin Intravenous (VIGIV)
Cidofovir (Vistide)
Brincidofovir (CMX001/Tembexa)
Who Can Get the Vaccine?
Monkeypox vaccines have been severely limited, only used for patients exposed or at the highest risk for contraction. JYNNEOS is the vaccine approved by the FDA for emergency use in those 18 years and older. It is a two-dose vaccine administered to the patient 28 days apart.
Preventing Monkeypox
The CDC recommends three steps to help prevent Monkeypox:
Avoid close contact with people with a rash that looks like Monkeypox.
Avoid contact with items that a person with Monkeypox has used.
Wash your hands often.
As we receive more updates about the state of the Monkeypox exposure rates, you can count on us at Ed Snell’s Pharmacy Shop to keep you informed.