Monkeypox: 5 Myths Around the Virus Debunked

Myth #1: Monkeypox is an airborne virus
Monkeypox is not an airborne disease. It mainly spreads via close contact including face-to-face contact, intimate physical contact, such as kissing, cuddling, or sex.
Myth #2: Monkeypox affects only the LGBTQI+ community
Monkeypox is mainly transmitted through any close contact, including sex. Hence it can affect anyone regardless of gender and sexual orientation.
Myth #3: Rashes are the only symptoms of Monkeypox
There are four main symptoms to look out for: fever, rashes located in or near the genital area, anus, hands, or feet, swollen lymph nodes and difficulty in swallowing.
Myth #4: Monkeypox is always symptomatic
Some people remain asymptomatic mainly because their immunity is good, virulence is low & they might be vaccinated with the smallpox vaccine.
Myth #5: Monkeypox cannot be treated
Monkeypox can be treated with antiviral medications such as tecovirimat (TPOXX). Two vaccines have also been approved in the US, namely, Jynneos and ACAM2000.