What to Do if You Have Been Exposed to Monkeypox (MPOX)

Monkeypox  is a contagious viral disease that spreads through close contact with an infected person or animal. With increasing cases globally, including human-to-human transmission, it's essential to know what steps to take if you've been exposed. Understanding proper protocols after exposure helps protect yourself, your loved ones, and the broader community from this emerging public health threat.

Monkeypox, also known as MPOX, is a rare viral disease caused by a virus that belongs to the same family as the virus causing smallpox. It primarily occurs in Central and West Africa but has gained attention due to its emergence in non-endemic countries. Though the source of the disease is unknown, rodents like rats or mice or nonhuman primates, such as monkeys, act as a reservoir and can infect humans. 

If you believe you have been exposed to Mpox, it is crucial to take specific steps to protect your health and that of others. 

Understanding Monkeypox

• Symptoms

Initial symptoms of Monkeypox typically present as rash, which may or may not be followed by the following symptoms:

• Fever

• Headache

• Muscle aches

• Backache

• Swollen lymph nodes

• Chills

• Exhaustion.

The intubation period of Mpox is 3-17 days. It has been observed that a rash usually develops 1–4 days after you have flu-like symptoms. The rash can be located on the hands, feet, chest, face, or mouth or near the genitals, including the penis, testicles, labia, vagina, and anus. Although it often begins on the face, it can spread to other body parts.

The rash goes through various stages before forming scabs and eventually falling off. The illness usually lasts for 2 to 4 weeks.1-2

• Transmission

Monkeypox can be transmitted through:

• Direct contact with the blood, bodily fluids, or skin/mucosal lesions of infected animals or humans.

• Respiratory droplets during prolonged face-to-face contact.

• Contaminated materials, such as bedding or clothing.

• Pregnant people infected with Mpox can transmit the virus to the baby during pregnancy or during and after birth.

It is important to recognize when a person can spread this virus;

• A person infected with Mpox can spread it to others from the time symptoms begin until the rash has fully healed and a fresh layer of skin has formed.

• However, newer research has shown that an infected individual can spread this virus for 1 to 4 days before any symptoms appear. 

Immediate Steps to Take if You Are Exposed to Monkeypox

If you come in close contact with an infected person, please contact your health professional and follow the given measures: 

Self-Isolation

• The foremost important step is to self-isolate to protect the health of others. Stay in a separate room, use a separate bathroom if possible, and avoid sharing personal items.

• You should practice good hygiene by washing your hands frequently with soap and water and avoiding touching your eyes.

• Keep skin dry and uncovered. 

• If you must be around others, use protective gear like masks, safety goggles or glasses, and gloves if you can’t avoid contact.

Monitor Symptoms

CDC recommends that you watch for your symptoms for 21 days after your last exposure. Keep a close watch on any rash that may develop on any part of the body, like the genitals, anus (butthole), hands, feet, chest, face, or mouth and be vigilant the presence of a few or all symptoms.

The COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the critical importance of early detection in improving treatment outcomes and preventing the spread of disease. If you suspect exposure or are experiencing symptoms, it is essential to contact your healthcare provider promptly. They can guide you on necessary actions, including testing and appropriate treatment options, helping to manage the condition effectively and reduce the risk of transmission.

Vaccination

To prevent the spread of Mpox and reduce the severity of the disease, it is essential for close contacts of an infected individual to get vaccinated as soon as possible. Vaccination is most effective if administered within four days of exposure, but can still be beneficial up to 14 days post-exposure. This timely intervention can help lessen the severity of symptoms and reduce the risk of transmission. For more information about vaccination and personalized advice, it is important to consult the healthcare provider to ensure the best course of action following potential exposure to Mpox.

Things to avoid

• Do not touch or scratch the rash or pop your blisters; it can spread to other parts of your body, increasing the chance of spreading the virus to others.

• Do not shave areas with sores until scabs have adequately healed and new skin is visible.

• Do not get in contact with pets.

• Avoid contact with people who have weak immune systems, such as children under one-year-old, pregnant women, and people with skin conditions. 

• Refrain from sexual activity with new partners during periods of increased transmission, and always use condoms during sex as a precaution for 12 weeks after you have recovered.1-4

Conclusion

Exposure to monkeypox requires prompt and careful action to prevent the spread of the virus and ensure proper care. By self-isolating, monitoring symptoms, and seeking medical advice, you can effectively manage the situation and protect yourself and others.

References

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Monkeypox. [Internet]. [cited 2024 Sept 04] Available at:  https://www.cdc.gov/poxvirus/mpox/about/index.html

2. Tosh PK. Monkeypox: What is it, and how can it be prevented? [Internet]. June 05, 2024 [cited 2024 Sept 04] Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/infectious-diseases/expert-answers/monkeypox-faq/faq-20533608

3. Sreenivas S, Brennan D. Mpox (Monkeypox): What to know. July 25, 2022 [Internet]. [cited 2024 Sept 04] Available at:  https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/mpox

World Health Organization (WHO). Monkeypox. [Internet]. 26 Aug 2024. [cited 2024 Sept 04]. Available at: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/mpox