Cases of Monkeypox are increasing across the United States. If you’ve turned on the news lately, you’ve probably heard plenty of stories about this virus and how it could affect our lives. Many fear that it could be another pandemic. Currently, the CDC is tracking cases, especially in parts of the world like the United States, where it is not common.
There’s a big difference between Monkeypox and COVID-19. But we are still fearful and traumatized by the effect COVID-19 has had on our lives, so it makes sense that we would be afraid of another infectious disease spreading. The good news is that Monkeypox is widely different than COVID-19.
Monkeypox is a viral infection that causes fevers, headaches, muscle pain, chills, and a distinctive rash, typically 1-3 days after a fever. The rash is painful, similar to smallpox, and can take weeks to dissipate. The disease spreads through close contact with an infected person through droplets from sneezing or coughing or contact with the infected person’s rash. Unlike COVID-19, the virus is not airborne in fine aerosols, so the risk of airborne infection is minimal.
According to the University of Utah Health infectious disease experts, the risk of Monkeypox becoming another pandemic is very minimal. While the disease may be fatal in some cases, it is usually easily treatable, and the vaccine for smallpox helps prevent bad outcomes. There are also antiviral medications available for treatment. In addition, widespread worldwide transmission is low because the virus requires prolonged close contact to spread.
Even though fears of Monkeypox are overblown at this point, it’s still essential that you take steps to prevent transmission. Stick with the cleaning habits and routines you’ve picked up since COVID-19 came into our lives like:
- Cleaning and disinfecting high touch point areas
- Cleaning your hands often
- Avoiding contact with an infected individual or animal
- Using PPE when caring for an infected individual
Following these practices will prevent the transmission of Monkeypox and COVID-19 and regular cold, flu, and RSV viruses. Another option that may help is a treatment with the MicroShield 360 system. This antimicrobial coating sticks to the treated surface and kills virus and bacteria particles that land on the treated surface. It’s a great way to ensure your business is clean year-round and help prevent the spread of contagious viruses and bacteria!
Monkeypox is unlike to disrupt our lives as much as COVID-19. But that doesn’t mean we should ignore it either. Pay attention to the CDC’s recommendations, follow proper cleaning practices, and do your best to follow public health guidelines!
