Monkeypox virus: Know Do’s, don’ts to prevent spread

New Delhi: The cases of monkeypox are rising every day across the world, taking the total tally to 18,000 in 78 countries. The data of the cases were shared by the World Health Organisation (WHO). India also has reported eight cases of the disease. It also claimed a life of a person in the country. Currently, there is an outbreak in non-African countries, and many patients affected have been men who had close social or intimate (including sexual) contact with men.

Monkeypox is found mainly in Central and West Africa, often in tropical forested areas, although monkeypox has also spread in cities. According to the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Monkeypox symptoms usually occur in two stages:

– The first stage is often characterized by fever, headache, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes (often in the neck and arm pits), and tiredness.

– The second stage characterized by a rash occurs 1 to 3 days after the fever begins. The rash can begin on any part of the body. The lesions of the rash (bumps/blisters) develop on any part of the body, including genital areas. The lesions can also spread to other parts of the body. The rash often goes through several stages before scabbing over and resolving.

The monkeypox virus can be spread to others by an infected person until all the scabs fall off and a fresh layer of skin appears. Monkeypox can last up to a month and can be fatal.

Below here, we are going to explain to you the don’ts and dos to avoid its risk:

Don’ts to prevent the spread of Monkeypox

• Avoid close contact (including sexual contact) with people who are sick or have a rash and contaminated items
• Do not kiss, hug, or touch.
• Do not share eating utensils or cups.
• Do not touch the bedding or clothing of a sick person.
• Don’t touch live or dead wild animals.
• Do not touch or eat products that come from wild animals.
• Do not travel to public places if you have any symptoms of monkeypox

Dos to avoid the risk of getting infected with Monkeypox

• Avoid touching materials, such as bedding, that have been used by animals.
• If you are traveling to work with animals, wear appropriate protective equipment.
• Follow all necessary guidelines while working with animals suspected of monkeypox infection
• Wash your hands with soap and water. One may also use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol.
• Keep your hands away from your eyes, nose, and mouth. Always remember to watch your hands before touching your face.