The World Health Organisation (WHO) has declared that the monkeypox outbreak, which has spread to more than 70 countries, is now a global emergency.
Monkeypox is related to smallpox and cases are usually found in West and Central Africa, with the virus not often spreading elsewhere.
The disease, which was first discovered in monkeys, is usually mild but can cause severe illness in some cases and due to its spread, has caused concern among health officials.
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As of July 21, there are over two thousand confirmed cases in the UK with 54 in Scotland alone.
Elsewhere there are 15 cases in Northern Ireland, 24 in Wales and 2,115 in England making up the majority of cases. This is said to be a rise of 71 cases on the previous week.
With this in mind, health experts at FROM MARS have shared the most common symptoms to look out for and what you should do if you think you have the virus. Here's what you need to know.
What is Monkeypox?
Monkeypox was first discovered back in 1958 and is most seen across Africa. Caused by the monkeypox virus, this rare disease is said to be spread by rodents and not monkeys, as the name might suggest.
How is Monkeypox spread?
Monkeypox can be spread by animals and humans. Catching monkeypox from an animal often occurs when the animal bites or scratches the human, as well as transmitting bodily fluids. In humans, the virus is transmitted through coughing, sneezing and airborne droplets.
What are the symptoms of Monkeypox?
Symptoms include:
High temperature
Muscle aches
Swollen glands
Fatigue
Shivering
Navin Khosla, Medical Writer at FROM MARS has said that although cases are on the rise, many people may only feel the symptoms up to four weeks. She explained: "Although cases of monkeypox are on the rise, it’s a rare disease and most people who contract the virus usually only suffer with mild symptoms which last around 2 to 4 weeks.
"In the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic, many people are anxious when stories like those related to monkeypox are reported in the news and although your chances of catching monkeypox are extremely slim, it’s important to be aware of the symptoms and the steps you can take to avoid the virus.
"No matter how obscure this may sound, it’s important to stay away from any dead animals you may come across, whether that’s in the street or local woodlands and stay away from animals which appear unwell.
"In relation to human transmission, it’s important to avoid contact with any humans who are unwell and refrain from sharing bedding, towels and other items they may have been in contact with. Alongside all of these precautions, it’s important to wash your hands on a regular basis and use hand sanitiser as often as possible, as well as only eating meat which has been cooked thoroughly.
"If you believe you might have monkeypox then it’s vital you isolate and ring your doctor and explain your symptoms and they will talk you through the next steps and what you need to do in order to prevent the virus from transmitting to other people."
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