Monkey pox is a rare viral infection caused by the monkeypox virus, which is closely related to the smallpox virus. It is mainly transmitted to humans through direct contact with infected animals, such as rodents, and sometimes human-to-human transmission from contact with infected bodily fluids or contaminated objects. However, it is rare for the virus to pass on to another person.
Additionally, monkey pox can become airborne in certain conditions, although this type of transmission is rare as well.