As the number of Monkeypox cases continues to rise, we have been closely monitoring this public health crisis to bring you the most up-to-date information on this virus.
Monkeypox has been globally reported in excess of 30,189 cases – 8,934 cases that the United States is currently facing alone.
Monkeypox (MPV) is a serious viral illness that can be transmitted through direct contact with an infected person’s body fluids or MPV lesions. MPV (Monkeypox) is part of the same family of viruses as the Variola Virus, the virus that causes Smallpox.
With reported cases fast increasing, we have compiled best practices to avoid becoming infected with MPV.
How to best prevent contracting Monkeypox
- Avoid skin-to-skin contact: Sharing direct and personal skin-to-skin contact should be avoided, and there is a higher likelihood of contracting monkeypox (MPV) at events hosted in enclosed spaces where people can be expected to have minimal to no clothing. Large outdoor events where people are fully clothed offer you more safety by minimizing your risk of exposure through skin-to-skin contact.
- Sex: Think carefully deeply about sexual activity and how/if to have sex. Do not participate in any intimate activities if you have flu-like symptoms or have developed any unusual rashes or lesions on your body. (see the section below about sex)
- Hand washing: Practice good hand washing, especially after encountering a person with MPV.
- Avoid infected surfaces: With unwashed materials and objects that have been exposed to direct and intimate contact with someone who has MPV. The virus can be spread through prolonged respiratory secretions or contact with a lesion or rash, not only person-to-person, but through contaminated objects that have not been properly cleaned.
- Mask up: Masks are encouraged to help prevent the spread through respiratory droplets in situations with face-to-face contact
- Isolate: Quarantine yourself from others if you have become exposed to or infected with MPV. Avoid contact with those who have the infection.
- Vaccine: HHS has ramped up testing and vaccine strategy with more than 200k doses to be distributed in the coming. (see more below about vaccine information)
- Talk with your healthcare provider: Health officials recommend talking to your healthcare provider about getting the smallpox vaccine within two weeks of exposure to someone diagnosed with MPV.
Stay healthy and get tested
As we wait for developing news about Monkeypox and regulations for the United States, let’s not forget to take care of ourselves and those we love.
Always be mindful to follow standard precautions when interacting with the public. Washing your hands frequently and getting tested are two simple ways to make a huge difference.
