How to You Get Monkey Pox?
Monkeypox is a viral disease that has been making headlines in recent years. It is caused by the monkeypox virus, which is part of the same family as smallpox. While monkeypox is not as widespread as smallpox, it is still a concern for public health officials. In this article, we will explore how you can get monkeypox and what you can do to protect yourself.
Monkeypox is primarily spread through direct contact with the skin, bodily fluids, or respiratory secretions of an infected person. This can happen through close contact with an infected animal, such as a monkey, or through human-to-human transmission. Here are some of the most common ways you can contract monkeypox:
1. Direct Contact with an Infected Person: The virus can be transmitted through close contact with an infected person, such as hugging, kissing, or sexual contact. It can also be spread through contact with the lesions or scabs of an infected person.
2. Contact with an Infected Animal: Monkeypox is named after the monkey, as it was first identified in monkeys in 1958. The virus can also be transmitted to humans through contact with infected animals, such as rodents, or through the consumption of infected meat.
3. Respiratory Secretions: The virus can be spread through the air if an infected person coughs or sneezes. This is less common, but it can happen in crowded places where there is close contact with others.
4. Contaminated Objects: The virus can survive on surfaces for a short period, so if you touch a surface that has been contaminated with the virus and then touch your face, you could potentially become infected.
To protect yourself from monkeypox, here are some key steps you can take:
– Avoid close contact with people who have symptoms of monkeypox, such as a rash or fever.
– Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
– Avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose, and mouth, with unwashed hands.
– If you are in an area where monkeypox is present, be aware of the risk and take appropriate precautions.
– If you have been exposed to someone with monkeypox, monitor yourself for symptoms and seek medical attention if you develop any.
In conclusion, while monkeypox can be transmitted through various means, understanding how you can get it is the first step in protecting yourself. By taking appropriate precautions and being aware of the risks, you can help prevent the spread of this virus and keep yourself and others safe.
