Monkeypox is a cousin of smallpox, though less severe. Actually, smallpox was eradicated in the early 1980's. Monkeypox has been emerging for the past 20-30 years, and is endemic near tropical rainforests in central and west africa. It poses a low risk to the general public.
Recently, 250 cases have been found in 16 countries. It is spread by close and prolonged contact with an infected individual, so remember the covid protocols to help protect yourself, if you think someone you know has monkeypox. Incubation period is 7-14 days. Symptoms are flu like: headache, congestion, and swollen lymph nodes, like smallpox. Small bumps appear on the skin, often in the genital area, but other places as well. The are filled with a fluid, and until the bumps scab over, they are contagious. Monkeypox that is showing up today is often just a rash.
Is it something to worry about? According to WHO and the CDC, no. Just follow good health practices if you think you have been exposed. At this time, monkeypox is a low risk disease.
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