Monkeypox Ashlynn Kohoutek

What is it… An exotic infectious disease The disease was first identified in laboratory monkeys, hence its name, but in its natural state it seems to infect rodents more often than primates. Most prevalent in Central and West Africa In humans it is a viral disease that occurs primarily in remote villages of Central and West Africa in proximity to tropical rainforests where there is more frequent contact with infected animals.

Species… Any type of primate Rodents Rabbits African prairie dogs.

Symptoms Similar to those of smallpox, but usually milder. Causes swollen lymph nodes General feeling of discomfort, and exhaustion Later fever developes Onset of rash Lesions develop several stages before crusting and falling off.

How virus is spread Transmitted to humans from rodents, pets, and primates through contact with the animal's blood or through a bite.

Fun Facts Incubation period : 12 days Lasts in the body: 2-4 weeks No proven safe treatment for pox In 1970, monkeypox was identified as the cause of a rash illness in humans in remote African locations

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