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Monkey pox

Monkeypox: A Rare Disease with Characteristic Skin Symptoms

Monkeypox is a disease characterized by spots, blisters and scabs on the skin. In addition, it can lead to inflammation of the last part of the intestine. The cause of this condition is the monkeypox virus. Although it used to occur mainly in Africa, cases have now been reported in Europe, although not yet frequently in the Netherlands.

The disease generally affects men who have sex with men, but it can affect anyone. However, monkeypox remains very rare; in most cases, skin problems such as spots, blisters or scabs are due to causes other than monkeypox.

Symptoms of Monkeypox

Symptoms of monkeypox include the appearance of spots on the skin. These spots usually first appear where the virus enters the body. For example, after sexual contact with someone who has the virus, the spots may first appear around the penis, anus or vagina. Spots on the face, such as in the mouth or eyes, may appear after licking or sucking (oral sex). Then the spots spread to other parts of the body, such as arms, legs, hands and feet.

The spots may itch and hurt, and over time blisters filled with fluid appear. In the initial stages, these blisters may look like regular pimples (acne). Then the blisters dry up and scabs form, which come off on their own after 2 to 3 weeks. In addition, monkeypox can lead to inflammation of the last part of the bowel, characterized by pain around the anus, vesicles in and around the anus, swelling, blood in the stool, and a feeling of urgency without actual defecation.

Common symptoms include fever and enlarged lymph nodes in the groin, neck or armpits.

Infectivity of Monkeypox

Monkeypox is contagious and can be transmitted from person to person. The virus is found in the blisters, scabs and wounds of someone who is infected. Transmission can occur through close contact, such as hugging, kissing or sex. The fluid from the vesicles can get into the eyes, nose or mouth through the hands, or through small wounds on the skin. It is also suspected that the virus can be transmitted through semen. Transmission through droplets, similar to chicken pox, is still unclear.

Vaccination against Monkeypox

People at increased risk for monkeypox may receive vaccination in some cases. This includes men who use Prep or are on the waiting list, as well as men who regularly visit the STI clinic. The vaccination consists of two shots, four weeks apart. Because smallpox and monkeypox are similar, the vaccination is believed to provide protection, but this is still being researched.

Danger of Monkeypox

In general, monkeypox is usually not dangerous. The majority of people do not become seriously ill and do not need treatment. However, people with compromised immune systems are at greater risk of severe symptoms.

Advice on Suspicion of Monkeypox

If someone suspects they have monkeypox, they are advised to stay home and contact their family doctor. The family doctor can make an initial assessment based on questions and possibly photographs. If monkeypox is suspected, the GGD can perform a test, taking fluid from vesicles, throat and anus, along with blood sampling.

If monkeypox is diagnosed, the GGD will provide instructions on home isolation and possible treatments for symptom relief. After blisters and scabs disappear, it is advised to use condoms for three months, as the virus can potentially be transmitted through semen.

When To Call for Monkey Pox

It is advisable to call the family doctor if someone becomes sicker rather than better, develops a fever, experiences increased pain at or around the anus, develops blisters all over the body, or has recently had contact with someone with monkeypox. For severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, high fever or drowsiness, call the doctor or family doctor's office immediately.