Although the Kingdom has not announced recent cases of Mpox (MonkeyPox), Johns Hopkins Aramco Healthcare provides the following Mpox information. To alleviate any concerns some might have and to help you remain more vigilant.
Mpox is caused by the monkeypox virus, and there are two types: Clade I and Clade II.
Causes
Regardless of the type, Mpox virus can spread through
- Direct contact with or eating the meat of infected wild animals
- Contact with a person infected with Mpox or with contaminated materials, such as clothing and towels.
- Contact with the rash or secretions of an infected person
- Sexual contact
- Mpox can be transmitted from mother to child during or after birth.
Incubation
The incubation period for the virus is usually 7-14 days; but the body can host the virus from 5-21 days.
Symptoms
Skin rash that may be accompanied by the following symptoms:
- Fever
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Exhaustion
- Muscle aches and backache
- Headache
Prevention
- Be sure to regularly wash your hands with soap and water or use an alcohol-based sanitizer.
- Avoid contact with people who are sick or who have symptoms of infection (such as a rash)
- Avoid contact with or eating wild animals in areas where the disease is prevalent
- Follow infection control guidelines if caring for an infected person
- Avoid touching the items or surfaces touched by an infected person
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