Can you get monkeypox more than once? This is a question that has been on the minds of many people as the monkeypox outbreak continues to spread across the globe. While the disease is generally considered to be a one-time occurrence, recent studies and observations have raised questions about the possibility of recurrent infections. In this article, we will explore the current understanding of monkeypox and whether it is possible to contract the virus more than once.
Monkeypox is a viral disease caused by the monkeypox virus (MPXV), which is part of the same family as smallpox. The disease was first identified in 1958 in monkeys kept in a research laboratory in the United States. Since then, monkeypox has been reported in various African countries, and in recent years, there have been outbreaks in other regions, including the United States and Europe.
The initial understanding of monkeypox was that it was a rare and generally mild disease, with most infected individuals recovering without complications. However, the current outbreak has shown that the disease can be more severe, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems. The symptoms of monkeypox include fever, headache, muscle aches, and a rash that can lead to scarring.
Is it possible to get monkeypox more than once?
The answer to this question is not entirely clear. While most people who contract monkeypox recover and are considered immune to the virus, there have been rare cases where individuals have developed the disease again. These cases are often associated with close contact with animals or exposure to the virus in high-risk settings.
One study published in the New England Journal of Medicine in 2018 reported on a case of a woman who had been infected with monkeypox in 2003 and again in 2016. The researchers noted that the second infection was milder than the first, suggesting that the immune system may have developed some level of immunity to the virus.
Another study, published in the journal PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases in 2019, looked at 13 cases of monkeypox recurrence. The researchers found that the majority of these cases occurred in individuals who had been exposed to the virus in high-risk settings, such as laboratories or wildlife markets.
Understanding immunity to monkeypox
The immune response to monkeypox is complex, and it is not yet fully understood why some individuals may develop recurrent infections. However, it is believed that the virus may have the ability to mutate, allowing it to evade the immune system’s defenses. Additionally, the virus may be transmitted in ways that are not yet fully understood, increasing the risk of exposure and subsequent infection.
It is important to note that, while there have been rare cases of monkeypox recurrence, the overall risk of developing the disease more than once is still considered low. The World Health Organization (WHO) has stated that the risk of monkeypox recurrence is similar to that of smallpox, which is also caused by a virus in the same family.
Preventing monkeypox infections
Given the potential for monkeypox recurrence, it is crucial to take steps to prevent infection. This includes avoiding close contact with animals that may carry the virus, practicing good hygiene, and seeking medical attention if symptoms of monkeypox are suspected. Vaccination is also an important tool in preventing monkeypox infections, particularly for individuals at high risk.
In conclusion, while the possibility of getting monkeypox more than once is a concern, the overall risk remains low. As researchers continue to study the virus and its transmission, it is important to stay informed about the latest findings and take appropriate precautions to protect yourself and others from infection.
