What to Know About Monkeypox

In this article, we want to discuss the topic of monkeypox, especially on the heels of the U.s declaring it a national health emergency.

Here’s the latest guidance from the CDC so you can keep yourself and your loved ones safe:

• Monkeypox is a rare disease caused by infection with the monkeypox virus, the same family of viruses that causes smallpox.

• Monkeypox can cause a rash that looks like pimples or blisters, sometimes accompanied by a flu-like illness. See photos of the rash.

• The virus spreads primarily through close, intimate contact with someone who has the disease. To prevent infection, avoid close, skin-to-skin contact with people who have a rash that looks like monkeypox, and do not touch the rash or scabs of an infected person. Two vaccines are available. Learn more about the vaccines and how to prevent the disease.

• If you suspect you’ve been exposed, reach out to your health care provider. While there is no specific treatment for the virus, antiviral drugs may help.

• As of July 27, 2022, the CDC had confirmed 4,639 cases of monkeypox in the U.S. See the distribution of cases across the U.S.

If you have questions about your health or the health of a loved one, please reach out to your care provider. And, as always, feel free to give the office a call or reply to this blog post if you have any medicare-related questions or concerns.