Monkeypox is a rare viral disease caused by the monkeypox virus, which is an enveloped double-stranded DNA virus of the Orthopoxvirus genus in the Poxviridae family. The disease is similar to smallpox, but less severe. Here are some key facts about monkeypox:

• Symptoms: Monkeypox presents with fever, an extensive characteristic rash, and usually swollen lymph nodes. Lesions evolve from macules (lesions with a flat base) to papules (raised firm painful lesions) to vesicles (filled with clear fluid) to pustules (filled with pus), followed by scabs or crusts.

• Transmission: Monkeypox is a zoonosis, a disease that is transmitted from animals to humans, with cases often found close to tropical rainforests where there are animals that carry the virus. Evidence of monkeypox virus infection has been found in animals including squirrels, Gambian pouched rats, dormice, different species of monkeys, and others. Person-to-person transmission of monkeypox can occur through direct contact with infectious skin or other lesions such as in the mouth or on genitals.

• Treatment: There is no specific treatment for monkeypox, but supportive care can be provided to relieve symptoms.

• Prevention: The best way to prevent monkeypox is to avoid contact with animals that may carry the virus, such as rodents and primates. People should also avoid contact with infected individuals and their bodily fluids.

Monkeypox is a rare disease that occurs mostly in central and western Africa, but cases have also been reported from countries without previously documented monkeypox transmission outside the African region.