Stating that monkeypox, which the World Health Organization has once again declared an emergency, is a viral disease transmitted from animals to humans, Microbiology and Infectious Diseases Specialist Prof. Dr. Mustafa Sünbül said, “Monkeypox virus is transmitted from person to person by body fluids, close contact with skin lesions, respiratory droplets and virus-infected bedding and covers. The classical smallpox vaccine also provides partial protection against monkeypox. For this reason, it is estimated that the population under the age of 50 may be more prone to the disease.”
Liv Hospital Samsun Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases Specialist Prof. Dr. Mustafa Sünbül warned about monkeypox. Making a statement about how the virus is transmitted, Prof. Dr. Sünbül said, “As it is known, the World Health Organization (WHO) has declared a worldwide emergency again. Monkeypox virus is transmitted from person to person through body fluids, close contact with skin lesions, respiratory droplets and infected bedding and covers. The incubation period is usually 6-13 days, but can vary from 5-21 days. It can also be transmitted through undercooked meat of sick animals and other animal products. Another route of transmission is sexual contact. Health personnel who do not use appropriate protective equipment and the patient's immediate environment are at risk.”
“Classical smallpox vaccine can also provide protection against monkeypox”
Underlining that sudden onset of fever, headache, swelling of the lymph nodes, muscle aches, back pain, weakness and skin rash are the main symptoms, Prof. Dr. Sünbül said, “The rash usually starts 1-3 days after the fever. It is less on the trunk and more intense on the face, palms and feet. It can be swollen or flattened from the skin and manifests itself in the form of sacs filled with clear or yellowish liquid. Symptoms disappear spontaneously after 2-4 weeks. There is no effective treatment for the disease. It is mostly symptomatic treatment. The classical smallpox vaccine also provides partial protection against monkeypox. For this reason, it is estimated that the population under the age of 50 may be more prone to the disease.”
“Attention should be paid to hand hygiene”
Prof. Dr. Sünbül said the following about the ways of protection from monkeypox:
“It is important to stay away from people suspected of being ill. Health workers should use protective equipment such as gloves and masks. Attention should be paid to hand hygiene. It is recommended to avoid contact with wild animals or to stay away from dead animals. In European countries, sick people are quarantined and isolated for 21 days.”
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