Monkeypox - What Veterans Need to Know
On May 7, 2022, the world was alerted to a confirmed case of monkeypox in the United Kingdom. Since then, the virus has spread to many countries including the United States and the World Health Organization has declared it a Public Health Emergency of International Concern.
Monkeypox is caused by the monkeypox virus, closely related to the smallpox virus but less severe and contagious. Monkeypox typically presents with fever, swollen lymph nodes, and a rash.
Monkeypox is primarily transmitted via direct contact with infectious material from skin lesions and, in the current outbreak, is most commonly associated with sexual activity. Respiratory transmission after prolonged exposure and transmission through contact with contaminated surfaces and objects is possible but infrequent in the current outbreak.
Monkeypox normally takes about two weeks to four weeks to run its course. If you’re exposed to monkeypox, your provider will monitor you until the illness is resolved.
The less severe Clade II strain is causing the current world outbreak (2022). To date, no one has died from this outbreak in the United States. But monkeypox can lead to other problems (complications) like pneumonia and infections in your brain (encephalitis) or eyes, which can be fatal.
Any person who comes in direct skin-to-skin contact with another who is infected may catch monkeypox. The current outbreak has, for now, disproportionately affected the gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men who should be prioritized for vaccine based on their personal risk of exposure. VA is following CDC guidelines and prioritizing individuals for the vaccine based on their personal risk of exposure.