Top 10 Symptoms of Mpox Virus: What to Watch Out For
August 16, 2024 As the Mpox virus continues to spread in various parts of the world, knowing its symptoms is crucial. Early detection can make a big difference in the treatment and containment of the virus. Health experts are urging people to be aware of the signs to ensure quick medical attention. Below, we break down the top 10 symptoms of the Mpox virus in simple terms.
1. Fever
Fever is usually the first sign that something is wrong. It’s the body’s way of fighting off an infection. When someone catches the Mpox virus, they often develop a fever. The fever can be high and persistent. Sometimes, it comes with chills and makes the person feel very cold, even if they are burning up. This fever can last for several days, signaling the start of other symptoms.
2. Headache
A severe headache is another common symptom of the Mpox virus. This headache can feel different from normal headaches. It’s often stronger and more painful. People with Mpox often describe it as a throbbing pain. Over-the-counter painkillers may not always help. The headache can make it hard to concentrate or go about daily activities. This symptom usually appears alongside the fever and can last throughout the illness.
3. Muscle Aches
Muscle aches, or myalgia, are widespread with Mpox. The pain affects the entire body. It can make simple movements painful. The muscle aches are usually at their worst in the first few days. They make the person feel weak and tired. This symptom can be so severe that it forces people to stay in bed.
4. Fatigue
Fatigue is one of the most draining symptoms of the Mpox virus. It’s more than just being tired. It’s a deep sense of exhaustion that doesn’t go away even after rest. People with Mpox often feel too tired to do anything, even basic tasks. This fatigue can last for the entire duration of the illness and might linger even after other symptoms have improved.
5. Swollen lymph nodes
Swollen lymph nodes are a clear sign that the body is fighting an infection. With Mpox, this symptom is very noticeable. The lymph nodes in the neck, armpits, and groin can become swollen and tender. This swelling happens because the immune system is working hard to fight off the virus. The lymph nodes might be painful to touch and can make it uncomfortable to move certain parts of the body.
6. Rash
A rash is one of the most recognizable symptoms of Mpox. It usually starts on the face and spreads to other parts of the body. At first, the rash looks like small red spots. Over time, these spots turn into raised bumps and then into blisters filled with fluid. The rash can cover large areas of the skin. It might be itchy or painful. The rash is a key indicator of Mpox and often prompts people to seek medical advice.
7. Lesions
As the Mpox rash develops, it turns into lesions. These lesions are pustules, which are small, pus-filled bumps on the skin. They eventually scab over and heal, but they can be quite painful. In some cases, the lesions might leave scars. The appearance of these lesions is often what leads doctors to diagnose Mpox, as they are a distinctive feature of the virus.
8. Chills
Chills often accompany the fever in Mpox cases. Even when someone has a high fever, they might feel cold and shiver. These chills can come and go, making the person feel very uncomfortable. Chills are a sign that the body is trying to regulate its temperature while fighting the virus.
9. Back Pain
Back pain is another symptom that many people with Mpox report. This pain usually occurs in the lower back. It can be sharp or achy and might make it hard to move or sleep. The back pain often comes with the muscle aches and adds to the overall discomfort. This symptom can last for several days and might require pain relief measures.
10. Sore throat
A sore throat can also occur with Mpox. It might start as a scratchy feeling in the throat and progress to more severe pain. It may become difficult to swallow, and a cough or other respiratory symptoms may accompany the sore throat. This symptom can make eating and drinking uncomfortable, further weakening the person’s overall health.
Conclusion
Knowing the symptoms of the Mpox virus can help you take quick action. If you or someone you know shows signs of Mpox, it’s important to contact a healthcare provider right away. Early detection and treatment can prevent the virus from spreading and reduce the severity of the illness. With the virus continuing to spread, staying informed is your best defense.