A major symptom of the infection known as monkeypox (monkeypox) is the appearance of a rash on the skin, which spreads throughout the body, including the genitals. But before the blisters appear, other common symptoms of infection appear.
according to World Health Organization (WHO)The incubation period for the virus (the time interval from infection to symptoms) for monkeypox is usually 6 to 13 days, but can range from 5 to 21 days.
Credit: Reproduction / CDCPimples on the skin are one of the most characteristic symptoms of monkeypox.
Then the disease passes through different stages, which can be divided into periods:
level 1: Invasive period (lasts between 0-5 days)
In this first stage, the affected person usually has a fever, severe headache, lymphadenopathy (swollen lymph nodes), back pain, muscle aches (muscular pain), and a severe lack of energy.
Lymphadenopathy is a distinctive feature of monkeypox compared to other diseases that may initially appear similar (varicella, measles, smallpox).
Level 2: The rash usually begins within 1-3 days after the onset of the fever.
Credit: Reproductive Consultant/DermatologistThe blisters appear in the second stage of monkeypox
The rash tends to be more concentrated on the face and extremities than on the trunk. According to the World Health Organization, pimples affect the face in 95% of cases and the palms of the hands and soles of the feet in 75% of cases.
The oral mucosa (in 70% of cases), genitals (30%), conjunctiva (20%), as well as the cornea are also affected.
The rash develops and goes through different stages. At first, flat lesions appear, which rise slightly, then are filled with a yellowish liquid, before the formation of a crust, and then fall off.
Cases investigated in the United Kingdom
UK health authorities have already confirmed seven cases of monkeypox between 6 and 15 May.
The disease is usually associated with travel to Africa, but the last 4 patients identified were not on the continent. Therefore, investigations focus on detecting the focus of infection.
Nurses and doctors have been advised to be “vigilant” to patients who have these blisters on their body.
The UK Health Safety Agency (UHKSA) said: “While investigations are still underway to determine the source of the infection, it is important to stress that it does not spread easily between people and requires close personal contact with an infected person showing symptoms.” statment.
Charlotte Whitmore is a contributor at Mediarunsearch.co.uk, covering a broad range of topics including news, politics, business, technology, sport, entertainment, and lifestyle. She focuses on delivering clear, balanced reporting and practical information that helps readers stay informed about current events and emerging developments. Her work highlights stories that matter to everyday audiences, with an emphasis on accuracy, relevance, and accessible journalism that keeps readers connected to the issues shaping the UK and beyond.