Monkeypox is a disease that has been on the rise lately. One of the symptoms is a rash, which can leave marks on the skin if we don’t take good care of it! What causes this disease? Can we still use skincare as usual? Instead of being curious, let’s take a good look!

What is Monkeypox and its Symptoms?

Monkeypox is a disease caused by a viral infection that is still in the same group as the virus that causes smallpox. The disease was first identified by scientists in 1958. While cases of monkeypox are most common in the Central and West African regions, it has recently made its way to Indonesia too! 

The monkeypox virus belongs to the genus Orthopoxvirus, just like the human smallpox virus. The main cause of the disease is direct contact with infected animals, such as monkeys, squirrels or other wild rodents. The virus can enter the body through broken skin, mucous membranes (eyes, nose, or mouth), or through the respiratory tract. So, it can be transmitted from animals or fellow humans. How scary!

In more detail, the mode of transmission goes like this:

• Direct contact with blood, body fluids or wounds from infected animals.
• Inhalation of droplets or splashes of respiratory fluid from an infected person, especially if in close proximity.
• Direct contact with skin lesions or objects that have been contaminated by fluids from a person with monkeypox, such as clothing or bed linen.

Therefore, we must remain vigilant and maintain cleanliness amidst the outbreak of monkeypox in Indonesia, Sereni-Trees!

What are the symptoms of monkeypox that we should be aware of?

The symptoms of monkeypox are similar to those of chickenpox, but generally milder. The symptoms usually appear within 5 to 21 days after a person is exposed to the virus. In the early stages or invasion period, some common signs include fever, headache, muscle pain, back pain, fatigue, chills, and swollen lymph nodes. Fever is often the first symptom to appear. Usually, within 1 to 3 days after these initial symptoms appear, the patient will develop a rash on several parts of the body.

The rash can appear on areas such as the face, hands, feet, mouth, genital area, and even around the eyes. After the appearance of the rash, the disease goes into the skin eruption period, where the lesions on the skin will develop through several stages. The first stage is macular, where the lesion changes color but is still flat. Then, the lesion will be slightly raised and enter the papule stage. Next, the lesion turns into a vesicle, where small bumps form and are filled with clear fluid. At the pustule stage, the fluid turns yellowish. After going through these stages, the lesion will dry up and eventually slough off.

These symptoms usually last for 2 to 4 weeks, and in most cases, the patient’s condition will improve on its own without serious complications. Don’t panic Sereni-Trees! The most important thing is to consult and treat it early so that it can be resolved quickly!

Does Monkeypox Rash Leave a Mark?

The rash from monkeypox can leave marks, especially if the lesions are severe or irritated. In the later stages, when the pustules begin to dry out and slough off, scars may appear, especially if the patient scratches or does not take good care of the wound. These scars are usually in the form of hyperpigmentation, which is a change in skin color to become darker, or they can be scarring.

To prevent this, do this when you have a monkey pox rash:

• Do not scratch the rash or scabs:

A warm bath can help soothe the skin, and keep nails short to prevent infection from scratching.

• If the rash is in the genital area or anus:

Reduce discomfort with sitz baths (sitting in warm shallow water). Sitz baths can also be placed over the toilet or bathtub.

• Use a cold compress:

Dampen a clean washcloth with cold water, wring it out, and place it on the itchy area for a few minutes.

• Cleanse skin with gentle soap:

Use soaps made for sensitive skin and avoid products with harsh ingredients. Serenitree gentle body wash recommendation.

• Do not share toiletries:

Avoid sharing towels, washcloths or clothes with others to prevent the spread of the virus.

• Keep the skin spots moisturized:

Apply petroleum jelly or unscented ointment containing petrolatum to keep the skin moisturized.

• Use ointment from a tube or bottle:

Avoid dipping your fingers into the container to prevent the transfer of germs.

• Cover the skin spot with a bandage:

After applying the ointment, cover it with an adhesive bandage or non-sticky gauze. This prevents the virus from spreading to other parts of the body or other people.

• Use antiseptic or antibacterial medicine from your doctor:

Only use if the skin spot is infected and is already part of the treatment plan.

• Monitor for signs of infection:

Signs include pus, discoloration, or an area that feels warm. If there are any signs of infection, see a doctor immediately!

Meanwhile, once the monkey pox rash has healed, do this:

• Prevents scars:

It is best to consult a dermatologist regarding the use of silicone-based gels or plasters to minimize scarring.

• Protect your skin from the sun:

Once the skin spots have healed, use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to prevent skin discoloration. This is an important step even if you don’t have monkeypox (prevents premature aging, skin cancer and various skin problems).

• Scar treatment:

If scars have already appeared, consult a dermatologist for further treatment options. Medical options such as lasers and the like are usually available.

So in conclusion, monkeypox rash can cause marks on the skin if we don’t take good care of it. Therefore, during the healing period and afterward, always keep clean and take good care of it. Regularly using Serenitree body wash and body lotion after showering will certainly help! Hope this article helps!