How Is Monkeypox Transmitted? Here’s What You Need to Know

On July 23, 2022, the World Health Organization declared monkeypox a global health emergency. After living through more than two years of COVID-19, the last thing we want to think about is the possibility of another life-altering pandemic. And, as the old saying goes, "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure." What is monkeypox, exactly? How is monkeypox transmitted? Most importantly, what can you do to prevent infection and keep you and your family safe? Keep reading as we discuss what you need to know about the virus.

What Is Monkeypox?

Monkeypox (a virus similar to but less severe than smallpox) was first identified in humans in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Since then, sporadic outbreaks have been reported in different parts of Africa, usually associated with direct contact with infected animals (rodents, monkeys, squirrels, and rats). Before April 2022, few cases of monkeypox had ever been reported outside of central Africa. But since May 2022, thousands of cases have been reported across 50 different nations. In the United States alone, as of August 5, more than 7,500 cases have been confirmed. This has prompted the WHO to label monkeypox as an "evolving threat of moderate concern." Symptoms of monkeypox might include:

• A rash that looks like pimples or blisters
• Fever
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Chills
• Muscular aches
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Sore throat
• Congestion
• Cough

The most telling sign of a monkeypox infection is the rash, which goes through several stages (including scabbing) before it heals. Some patients report flu-like symptoms before the onset of the rash, while others develop secondary symptoms later. In some cases, the rash is the only symptom. Although it is contagious, the good news is that monkeypox is rarely fatal. Symptoms may be painful, though, and can interfere with daily activities. For most patients, symptoms last anywhere from 2-4 weeks and end when the final scabs have fallen off.

How Is Monkeypox Transmitted?

The main method of transmission is through close physical contact with an infected person who displays symptoms. This includes:

• Direct contact with bodily fluids, rash, or scabs (i.e., sensual massage, intimate touching, sexual intercourse)
• Prolonged face-to-face contact with an infected person (i.e., kissing)
• Direct contact with objects (i.e., bedding, clothing, sex toys) that have been contaminated by an infected person

Skin-to-skin contact is the most common way the virus spreads, although it may also spread through saliva, respiratory droplets, and other bodily fluids. While animal-to-human transmission is more common in Africa, cases in other parts of the world are most often passed from person to person. It's important to know that the virus can live on surfaces for over 15 days. Researchers who swabbed rooms for environmental samples found the highest viral loads in the patients' bathrooms, particularly on toilet seats, sink handles, and soap dispensers. As of June 24, 98% of diagnosed patients in all countries were either gay or bisexual men. Scientists are currently conducting more research to determine if monkeypox can spread through semen, urine, feces, or vaginal fluids. In the meantime, let's discuss some practical steps you can take to avoid contamination and prevent infection.

How Can I Protect Myself?

Here are some things the CDC is recommending to protect yourself from monkeypox.

Avoid Direct Physical Contact

The most obvious way to protect yourself from monkeypox is to avoid direct physical contact with an infected person. Avoid skin-to-skin contact with anyone diagnosed with monkeypox (or who displays an undiagnosed rash). This includes hugging, kissing, massaging, and all forms of sexual activity. If you choose to have intimate contact with multiple partners, ask them if they feel sick, have a rash, or are showing any other symptoms of monkeypox. It may be wise to your number of sexual partners, especially if you don't know their recent history. If you live in or travel to Africa, where the virus is endemic, avoid direct contact with rodents, primates, and other animals who may carry monkeypox. Avoid bedding, food, or other materials and objects they may have touched.

Avoid Secondary Contact

Researchers have found that monkeypox can survive on surfaces for as long as 15 days. This might include:

• Bedding
• Towels
• Clothing
• Sex toys
• Household surfaces
• Eating utensils and cups

Don't touch or share any of the items listed above with a person who has monkeypox. If you need to clean or disinfect anything, wear personal protective equipment including a face mask and gloves. Important note: Monkeypox is not nearly as contagious as other viruses like COVID-19. You cannot catch monkeypox from talking to or walking past someone in a public place, such as a supermarket. The virus is spread through close, direct, and prolonged physical contact.

Disinfection & Personal Protection

If you visit a facility or come into contact with someone who may have (or may have been exposed to) monkeypox, it's important to clean and disinfect the area. Avoid dry dusting or sweeping, as this can spread infected particles. Instead, use wet cleaning methods with an EPA-registered disinfectant such as hydrogen peroxide or Vital Oxide (chlorine dioxide) to clean countertops, switches, doorknobs, and other frequently touched items. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions with any surface disinfectants you choose to use. Also, since monkeypox can spread through respiratory droplets, be sure to wear well-fitting PPE (such as N95 or surgical masks) when in close contact with others who may have the virus. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water and finish with a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. What if, despite your best efforts, someone in your home contracts monkeypox? Follow the CDC's detailed guidelines for home disinfection to prevent the virus from spreading.

Stay Safe With the Right Medical Supplies

It's too soon to know what impact monkeypox will have on our society as a whole. Until scientists learn more about the disease, your best bet is to take precautions against infection. MedLab Supply has everything you need to keep you and your family safe from monkeypox, COVID-19, and other health hazards. From face masks and gloves to hand sanitizers and disinfectants, you'll find an array of high-quality medical supplies at prices you can afford. Click here to browse our complete line of personal protective equipment and order your supplies today.