Monkeypox not just sexually transmitted, 30+ kids tests positive in US
Monkeypox can infect adults as well as kids. (Representative Image)
Monkeypox has spread to more than 80 countries worldwide. More than 30 kids in the US have tested positive for monkeypox in the latest development on the disease.
Monkeypox cases in children: In the United States, more than 30 kids have tested positive for monkeypox. Officials in the US informed ABC News that 11 US states and jurisdictions have reported monkeypox cases among children. 9 paediatric cases have been reported in Texas alone.
The CDC also warned that children below the age of 8 years are more likely to develop severe illness due to monkeypox.
Monkeypox is not (just) an STD: The Texas Health Ministry has now said that the disease can spread through non-sexual contact as well.
While initially monkeypox was linked to sexual activities among men, it is not just an STD.
Monkeypox does spread via sexual activities; but it a half-truth.
Monkeypox can spread through other activities as well. These include close, personal or any kind of skin-to-skin contact, which can lead to transfer of infected fluids.
Hugging, kissing, prolonged face-to-face contact and touching fabrics and surfaces used by someone with monkeypox can also lead to the spread of the disease.
How does Monkeypox spread in kids? According to the World Health Organization, children too can be infected with monkeypox if they have had any form of close contact with an infected person. Children are also more prone to a severe form of the disease. Usually, children are exposed to the virus from parents, caregivers and family members.
What are the symptoms in kids? The symptoms of monkeypox in kids can be easily misunderstood. The symptoms are very similar to chickenpox and other viral infections. Therefore, if you notice any monkeypox symptoms in your children, seek medical help. A test can help get clarity on the type of infection.
Symptoms of monkeypox in kids are similar to those in adults; which include headache, fever, back pain, muscle ache and lack of energy. After a week or two, the infected individual develops rashes, which leads to pustules. The disease lasts for 2 to 4 weeks.