PULSE YOUR HEALTH

What is mpox? Mpox is a rare but serious viral infection that affects the skin and mucous membranes. It is caused by the monkeypox virus, which belongs to the same family as the smallpox virus. Mpox can be transmitted from animals to humans, or from person to person through contact with infected fluids, lesions, or respiratory droplets. Mpox is called mpox because it was formerly known as monkeypox, a viral disease that was first identified in laboratory monkeys. However, the name was changed to mpox in 2022 to avoid stigmatizing monkeys and other animals that can carry the virus.  The World Health Organization (WHO) recommended the name change after consulting with experts and stakeholders from affected countries.  The new name also reflects the fact that mpox can infect humans and some other mammals, not just monkeys. Symptoms of mpox The symptoms of mpox usually appear 10 to 14 days after exposure. They include fever, headache, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, and a rash