Monkeypox is a rare disease caused by the monkeypox virus, which belongs to the same family as the virus that causes smallpox, but is much milder. There are now 22 cases in the state, more than 15,000 cases nationwide, and more than 43,000 cases worldwide. As with any new disease affecting our state, the New Mexico Department of Health (DOH) wants to separate fact from fiction so residents can make informed choices to protect themselves. I think.

Symptoms of monkeypox include fever, chills, headache, muscle aches, back pain, fatigue, and swollen lymph nodes. The best indication that this is not another infection is a pimple-like or blistering-like rash that appears on the face, mouth, and other parts of the body, such as the hands, feet, chest, genitals, and anus. Some people get a rash before the rash, others just a rash. Although there have been no deaths in the United States, monkeypox still needs to be avoided and prevented.

Monkeypox is spread from person to person by close, personal, and often skin-to-skin contact with infectious rashes, crusts, or bodily fluids. It can also be spread via respiratory secretions during prolonged face-to-face contact and intimate physical contact such as kissing, cuddling, and sex. Anyone who comes into close personal contact with someone infected with monkeypox can become infected and should take steps to protect themselves.

Monkeypox is spreading across the United States, but it’s important to remember that most people are at low risk of contracting monkeypox and don’t need to wipe down groceries or doorknobs like they did early in the COVID-19 pandemic. While some have reported many early cases among gay and bisexual men, transmission of the infection between populations has been seen before. We can all take precautions because we know that it is due to close personal contact, including sexual activity and sexual activity.

With the current low number of cases, we as a community have an opportunity to prevent the spread of monkeypox. There are three ways to do this:

1. Preventive action: Monkeypox is spread primarily by contact, requiring close physical contact with the monkeypox affected area or the object that touched the monkeypox affected area. Therefore, ways to avoid contracting monkeypox include: A.) avoiding skin contact with people who have a monkeypox-like rash; and B.) avoiding contact with objects or materials used by monkeypox patients. , C. ) Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Especially before eating or touching your face.

2. Take the test: If you have a monkeypox-like rash, get tested right away. The test is becoming more widely available in healthcare settings and can also be done at the DOH Department of Public Health. The monkeypox test is free and does not require identification or insurance. If a person tests positive for monkeypox and is eligible for treatment, the provider can also get free treatment through her DOH.

3. Get vaccinated if eligible: If you have had monkeypox or are at high risk for monkeypox, a free monkeypox vaccine is available. The vaccine has few side effects other than pain at the injection site. We have seen affected communities protect themselves, their sexual partners, and family members by registering for vaccines. So far, more than 1,000 people in New Mexico have been I have chosen to reduce my risk and am receiving the first of two immunizations.

For more information on monkeypox, visit nmhealth.org and click on the monkeypox tab in the upper right corner.