In 1958, a new virus called “Monkeypox” emerged. The virus got it’s name because two outbreaks of pox occurred in monkeys.  It’s in the same family of small pox, but is nothing like chicken pox. It can last 2-4 weeks or longer depending on the circumstances. Prior to the outbreak in 2022, there was an outbreak in humans in 1970 in central and western Africa. 

Monkeypox is able to travel through physical touch, meaning if you come in contact with someone who has contracted Monkeypox, you are now infected. You can also get it from coughing, sneezing, and contact with clothing or linens. ”Some people get flu-like symptoms before they break out into a rash” stated on the CDC website, which was updated on August 5, 2022.You can contract pox without the other person knowing they have them, within 2-4 weeks or when you or others are not infected anymore. If you have contracted the pox you may have a fever, chills, swollen lymph nodes, and you could feel exhausted. You may have a headache, along with sore throat, nasal congestion, or a cough. Then, you will acquire a rash from the time symptoms start until the rash has healed. When you are healed, the rash will turn into scabs, but they will fall off and a fresh layer of skin will form.

  If you feel that you have contracted Monkeypox, please see a health care provider, but do it cautiously so you don’t spread the virus to someone else. The health care provider will test you and most likely will recommend you to stay home until you are no longer contagious. To avoid the virus, one should wash hands as frequently as possible, keep hands away from one’s face when touching surfaces. Don’t put fingers in mouth or eyes. Overall, maintain cleanliness to ensure safety.