Blog Archive
Monkeypox
In recent news, monkeypox has been found in the United States. This blog will help you better understand what it is, how you catch it, and what to do if you or your child catches it.
Recently, a probable case of monkeypox in Shawnee County, Kansas was identified and reported by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment. While not as prevalent in our minds as COVID, it certainly has been in the news lately. And, a great deal of misinformation has been spread throughout the internet. Let's try to clear the air.
What is monkeypox?
The CDC defines it is in the same family of viruses that causes smallpox. While its symptoms are similar to those of smallpox, they are generally milder and rarely fatal.
It generally forms as a rash near the genital area (but can be on the hands, feet, chest, face, or mouth). It looks like pimples or blisters, and can be itchy. It goes through several stages, including scabs, before healing. Other symptoms can include fever, fatigue and headaches.
How contagious is it?
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) stated, "The risk of children getting infected with monkeypox virus is low. As of August 3rd, two pediatric cases have been confirmed in the United States (<0.1% of all cases)." Infants, children under the age of 8, children with eczema and other skin conditions, and children with immunocompromising conditions are more susceptible. https://www.aap.org/en/patient-care/monkeypox/#:~:text=Is%20monkeypox%20a%20risk%20for,0.1%25%20of%20all%20cases).
How can I catch it?
The AAP states that monkeypox is spread by direct, skin-to-skin contact with the rash, scabs or body fluids of someone with the virus. It can also be spread by touching fabrics and surfaces used by someone with the virus. And finally, contact with respiratory secretions.
According to the CDC, "Monkeypox is not considered a sexually transmitted disease, but it is often transmitted through close, sustained physical contact, which can include sexual contact." https://www.cdc.gov/poxvirus/monkeypox/sexualhealth/index.html
What should I do if I think my child has monkeypox?
If these symptoms occur, contact us for guidance. In general, keep the skin covered, don't scratch it or touch the eyes. The child should not have contact with anyone other than the caregiver. Both the child (if age 2 or older) and the caregiver should both wear masks. The caregiver should wear a respirator (N95) and exam gloves when handling the child, bandages, or clothes. The child should not return to school until cleared by the local or state public health authorities.
Is there a treatment for children?
Yes. Your pediatrician or the public health authorities can help you with that.
For more information, please visit our website (https://www.cradlethrucollege.com/Monkeypox) or call us at 816-942-5437
What is monkeypox?
The CDC defines it is in the same family of viruses that causes smallpox. While its symptoms are similar to those of smallpox, they are generally milder and rarely fatal.
It generally forms as a rash near the genital area (but can be on the hands, feet, chest, face, or mouth). It looks like pimples or blisters, and can be itchy. It goes through several stages, including scabs, before healing. Other symptoms can include fever, fatigue and headaches.
How contagious is it?
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) stated, "The risk of children getting infected with monkeypox virus is low. As of August 3rd, two pediatric cases have been confirmed in the United States (<0.1% of all cases)." Infants, children under the age of 8, children with eczema and other skin conditions, and children with immunocompromising conditions are more susceptible. https://www.aap.org/en/patient-care/monkeypox/#:~:text=Is%20monkeypox%20a%20risk%20for,0.1%25%20of%20all%20cases).
How can I catch it?
The AAP states that monkeypox is spread by direct, skin-to-skin contact with the rash, scabs or body fluids of someone with the virus. It can also be spread by touching fabrics and surfaces used by someone with the virus. And finally, contact with respiratory secretions.
According to the CDC, "Monkeypox is not considered a sexually transmitted disease, but it is often transmitted through close, sustained physical contact, which can include sexual contact." https://www.cdc.gov/poxvirus/monkeypox/sexualhealth/index.html
What should I do if I think my child has monkeypox?
If these symptoms occur, contact us for guidance. In general, keep the skin covered, don't scratch it or touch the eyes. The child should not have contact with anyone other than the caregiver. Both the child (if age 2 or older) and the caregiver should both wear masks. The caregiver should wear a respirator (N95) and exam gloves when handling the child, bandages, or clothes. The child should not return to school until cleared by the local or state public health authorities.
Is there a treatment for children?
Yes. Your pediatrician or the public health authorities can help you with that.
For more information, please visit our website (https://www.cradlethrucollege.com/Monkeypox) or call us at 816-942-5437
