Do you get monkeypox from monkeys? This question has been on the minds of many people as the monkeypox outbreak continues to spread globally. While the name suggests a connection to monkeys, the reality is more complex. In this article, we will explore the origins of monkeypox, its transmission, and the role of monkeys in its spread.
Monkeypox is a viral disease caused by the monkeypox virus (MPXV), which belongs to the same family as smallpox. The disease was first identified in 1958 in monkeys kept in a research laboratory in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Since then, it has been found in various African countries, and occasionally in other parts of the world, including the United States.
The name “monkeypox” is derived from the fact that the virus was initially discovered in monkeys, but it is important to note that humans can contract the virus from other animals, not just monkeys. The virus can be transmitted to humans through direct contact with an infected animal, its bodily fluids, or contaminated materials such as bedding or clothing. Other animals that can carry the monkeypox virus include rodents, squirrels, and possibly other primates.
While monkeys are a natural reservoir for the monkeypox virus, it is not possible to contract the disease by simply touching a monkey. The virus is transmitted through respiratory droplets, close contact with an infected person, or by touching objects that have been contaminated with the virus. This means that the risk of infection is much higher among individuals who are in close proximity to an infected person or animal, such as healthcare workers, laboratory personnel, or those living in areas where the disease is endemic.
The symptoms of monkeypox include fever, headache, muscle aches, and a rash that can appear on any part of the body. The rash often starts on the face and spreads to other areas, such as the hands, feet, and genitals. While most cases of monkeypox are mild and can be treated with antiviral drugs, severe cases can lead to complications and even death.
In conclusion, while monkeys are a natural reservoir for the monkeypox virus, humans do not get monkeypox from monkeys in the same way they might contract rabies from a dog bite. The virus is transmitted through direct contact with an infected person or animal, or by touching contaminated objects. It is crucial to understand the modes of transmission and take appropriate precautions to prevent the spread of monkeypox.
