Monkeypox is a rare viral disease that produces symptoms similar to those of smallpox (which was officially eradicated in 1980). The virus is spread mainly by direct contact with an infected animal or person and secondarily by contact with objects contaminated with the virus, such as bedding or clothing.
Most cases of monkeypox have been associated with rodents or primates such as monkeys, squirrels, and other small mammals. Symptoms of Monkeypox in humans are characterized by a fever, chills, headache, muscle aches, backache, swollen lymph nodes, and a rash that progresses from macules to papules, vesicles, pustules, and is finally replaced by crusting. In some cases, complications such as pneumonia, inflammation of the brain, and eye infections can develop.
People with severe cases may require hospitalization.