U.S. Addresses Monkeypox outbreak: Hygiene and Vaccines are Key

‍ ‌ Updated June 05, 2025

Health officials are monitoring a⁣ 2022 monkeypox outbreak,including cases in the United States. While the disease, first identified in monkeys in 1958 and‍ in humans in 1970, is not new, its recent spread to countries where it’s ⁣not typically found ⁣has raised concerns. As of​ july 12, the ⁣U.S. reported 929 cases, according to ‌the Centers for Disease Control⁢ and Prevention.

The CDC recommends vigilance and preventative measures, but urges against panic regarding the monkeypox outbreak. The agency is actively tracking cases across ‍the country.

Microscopic image ⁢of monkeypox virus particles
Cynthia S. Goldsmith, Russell Regnery, courtesy CDC PHIL

Symptoms of monkeypox ⁢ include⁢ fever, headache, body aches, chills, fatigue, and a rash. The rash,⁣ a hallmark of the ‌disease,​ can appear anywhere on the⁢ body, ‍often resembling pimples, blisters, or scabs, and‍ may be⁤ itchy or⁤ painful. While treatment is available for severe cases, most individuals recover ⁢within two to four weeks.

The virus primarily spreads​ through close contact, ‌including skin-to-skin​ contact and saliva. While ‌monkeypox can spread‍ during⁢ sexual activity, it is not classified as a sexually ⁣transmitted⁢ disease. ‍Health officials ⁤advise ‍open communication with partners about potential symptoms and practicing safer sex by avoiding skin contact or⁢ saliva exchange if either ​partner feels unwell or has an unexplained ‍rash.

Vaccines are available for monkeypox‌ prevention.The CDC‌ recommends vaccination for men who have sex with men, individuals exposed to the virus, and‍ encourages smallpox vaccination, which has demonstrated about⁢ 85% effectiveness​ against monkeypox.

What’s ⁣next

The ⁤CDC will ‍continue monitoring the monkeypox situation​ and provide updates as needed. Individuals should remain vigilant and practice good hygiene.