Monkeypox is a growing epidemic in the US. The CDC states that Monkeypox is a rare disease caused by an infection by the monkeypox virus. Monkeypox is in the Orthopoxvirus genus, and is NOT related to chickenpox. The first discovered monkeypox-like virus was in 1958. Even though it is called monkeypox, we do not yet know the exact origin of this virus. African rodents and non-human primates are thought to harbor the virus and infect humans. 

     Monkeypox (MPV) is in the same viral family as smallpox and cowpox. Smallpox was eradicated in 1980 and is no longer in circulation. The symptoms of MPV are milder than smallpox, and has a shorter quarantine period of 7-14 days. The first case of MPV in 2022 was reported in Massachusetts. The infected individual had not traveled to Africa, where the previous outbreaks were discovered. Some of the patients that have been infected have been gay or bisexual. However, it is not necessarily a sexual transmitted infection. It is spread by sexual contact or close skin-to-skin contact, such as hugging, kissing, or cuddling. Anyone, regardless of sexual orientation, who has been in close personal contact is at risk of MPV.

     MPV begins with regular flu symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle aches, backache, swollen lymph nodes, chills, and exhaustion. After 1-3 day of the initial infection, the infected individual will start to develop a rash beginning on the face and spreading to other parts of the body. These symptoms typically last a few weeks. 

     There is, however, a vaccine. To protect yourself against the monkeypox virus, you can get the JYNNEOS vaccine. JYNNEOS is a two dose vaccine. There is also the ACAM2000 as an alternative, but the JYNNEOS is better for maximum immunization. 

     There are 17,432 cases as of Monday the 29th. This is a rapidly spreading virus, and individuals that are at risk should be careful. 

     Mr.Podwojski was asked to give a word on this subject. He said “I know little to nothing about monkeypox.” He further explains that, “all I know is that the people with the infection get bad rashes or blisters. I’ve seen the pictures of it, and it does not look fun.” 

     Monkeypox is an up and coming viral infection that could threaten our society as we know it. To avoid getting this disease, be careful who you are around and what you are doing. To be extremely safe go into full lockdown and stay inside at all times. Avoid all contact with people, even family members.