Monkeypox treatment and prevention: Dos and don'ts

Monkeypox cases are on the rise. India has so far reported two cases, both from Kerala. The patients are currently undergoing treatment at a hospital in Kannur.

The disease is spreading rapidly among gay and bisexual men who often present with rashes in the genital and anal area that doctors may confuse with herpes or syphilis.

Amid rising cases, there is a need to increase preparedness to deal with the situation. 

Monkeypox symptoms and prevention:

Monkeypox preventions

• Wash your hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

• Correct containment and disposal of contaminated waste.

• Care when handling soiled laundry (e.g., bedding, towels, personal clothing) to avoid contact with lesion material.

• Soiled laundry should never be shaken or handled in a manner that may disperse infectious particles.

• Care when handling used patient-care equipment in a manner that prevents contamination of skin and clothing.

• Ensure that used equipment has been cleaned and reprocessed appropriately.

• Ensure provisions are in place for cleaning and disinfecting environmental surfaces in the patient care environment.

• Hospital disinfectant currently used for environmental sanitation may be used as per recommendations for concentration, contact time, and care in handling.

• Do not share eating utensils or cups with a person with monkeypox.

Prevention measures for Monkeypox patients

• Patients should be isolated in a room or area separate from other family members.

• Healthy household members should limit contact with the patient.

• Patients should not leave the home except for medical care.

• No visitors should be allowed at home.

• Patients, especially those who have respiratory symptoms (e.g., cough, shortness of breath, sore throat) should wear a surgical mask.

• Disposable gloves should be worn for direct contact with lesions and disposed of after use.