The recent surge in monkeypox cases is becoming a cause for concern, as its numbers have risen by nearly 60 percent. As the situation unfolds, it’s vital to understand the symptoms of the disease and how to protect yourself against infection.

Monkeypox is a rare viral disease that’s similar to smallpox but milder in nature. It was first discovered in 1958 in monkeys kept in research laboratories. Since then, the virus has been found to affect humans as well, and outbreaks have occurred sporadically across West and Central Africa.

The main symptoms of monkeypox include fever, headache, muscle aches, backache, swollen lymph nodes, chills, and fatigue. A skin rash also forms within a few days of exposure to the virus. The rash initially appears on the face before spreading to other parts of the body.

Symptoms generally appear within 5-21 days after exposure, with severe cases lasting up to several weeks. While these symptoms are similar to those of smallpox and chickenpox, monkeypox is generally less severe and fewer people experience life-threatening complications.

Here are several symptoms to watch for:

1. High fever
2. Intense headache
3. Muscle aches and pain
4. Swollen lymph nodes
5. Chills and fatigue
6. Skin rash developing into fluid-filled blisters

Although there is no specific treatment for monkeypox, most people recover from the illness within a few weeks with supportive care and medications to relieve fever and pain.

Vaccination against smallpox may provide some level of immunity against monkeypox but getting vaccinated is not always feasible due to limited availability of the vaccine. To prevent infection, practice good hand hygiene, avoid close contact with infected individuals or animals, and steer clear of consuming bushmeat.

As the number of monkeypox cases continues to rise, staying informed about its symptoms and preventative measures is essential to curbing the spread of this rare disease.