With a second UK patient now being diagnosed with the rare illness, concerns are being raised about the virus spreading throughout the country. Here’s everything you should know about monkeypox, including the symptoms and how to treat it.
What is monkeypox?
Monkeypox is not as frightening as you may think. The symptoms are usually mild and most people recover from the illness within a few weeks. However, in some cases, the virus can become severe.
The disease is mainly found in west African countries, but with one patient from Devon and one from Blackpool contracting the disease, it’s now a concern for the UK. Both of these patients had recently visited Nigeria which is where they are believed to have contracted it.
It can be spread through close contact with an infected person.
What are the symptoms of monkeypox?
Most common symptoms of monkeypox are similar to the flu.
Swollen lymph nodes
A rash on the face which can spread to other parts of the body
How is monkeypox treated?
Most cases of monkeypox make a full recovery in a matter of weeks. There is no medication to treat the disease, as most patients recover without the need for treatment.