What is Monkeypox virus? Maryland infection is second in US of 2021

Monkeypox can be transmitted through bodily fluids and respiratory droplets, and can cause pus-filled blisters. Getty Images

The highly contagious disease Monkeypox — a viral cousin of Smallpox — was reported in Maryland this week, marking the second US case in recent months.

The infected person, who recently traveled to Nigeria, had mild symptoms and was recovering in isolation, according to the Maryland Department of Health.

Here’s what you need to know about the potentially fatal illness:
What is Monkeypox?

The disease is endemic to central and western Africa, and was first discovered in lab monkeys in 1958. It’s in the same family as the Smallpox virus, variola, with milder symptoms and a lower fatality rate, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
What are Monkeypox symptoms?

Symptoms include a fever, headache and achy muscles followed by a spotty rash, according to the CDC. The rash generally emerges on the face, spreads to other body parts then fills with fluid before scabbing over and falling off.

In total, the illness generally lasts between two and four weeks.
How does Monkeypox spread?

The virus is believed to be passed through respiratory droplets and face-to-face contact between people. By and large, it is transferred to people through wild animals such as rodents and primates, according to the World Health Organization.

In some cases, animals can also transfer it to people through scratches, bites or the handling of raw meat.

In the most recent Maryland case, health officials said there is little chance the virus would spread. “No special precautions are recommended at this time for the general public,” the Maryland health authorities said.

How does Monkeypox compare to smallpox?

The disease, which is most prevalent in tropical parts of West Africa, has a total fatality rate of...

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