Monkeypox Symptoms, Stages & How It Spreads

Monkeypox Symptoms: A Complete Guide to Mpox Identification

Monkeypox symptoms manifest as red bumps all over the skin, fever, extreme fatigue and flu-like symptoms. It is a rare infection caused by the monkeypox virus. Recently, the World Health Organisation renamed it 'Mpox' to make disease names less stereotypical. There are two strains of this illness, named Clades I and II, with certain subtypes.

Introduction

You may have come across alarming headlines or social media posts about monkeypox outbreaks in recent years. This rare viral illness, once mostly confined to certain parts of Africa, has now appeared in countries worldwide. Understanding monkeypox symptoms, transmission, and prevention is essential for protecting yourself and your community from unnecessary fear and potential exposure.

What is monkeypox?

Monkeypox, more commonly known as mpox, is a viral infection caused by the monkeypox virus. It emerges from the genus Orthopoxvirus. There are two different types: Clade I and Clade II. In 2024, the Democratic Republic of Congo saw a severe outbreak of Mpox. In addition, India reported 10 cases between 2024 and 2025.

The infection is contagious and can be transmitted from animals to humans as well. Scientists discovered it in monkeys kept for research in 1958, from which the virus derived its name.

What are the symptoms of monkeypox?

You may develop symptoms after a week of exposure. Some people may start showing symptoms 1 to 21 days after exposure. Watching out for the symptoms of monkeypox can help you identify them and get treated. They are as follows:

• Skin Rash: They are the most common and usually the first symptoms to appear. It may start from the face and spread to the rest of your body.
• Fever: For some people, fever may be the first sign of an infection. It appears after a few days of exposure and can resolve within 2-4 weeks.
• Flu-like Symptoms: You may start to experience headaches, back pain, fatigue and swollen lymph nodes.
   

People infected with monkeypox develop a distinct appearance. Monkeypox symptoms in kids often manifest as a ‘spotted’ look.

What are the Different Stages of Monkeypox?

Monkeypox virus symptoms go through 5 stages. These stages are as follows:

• Stage 1- Macule: In this stage, you start developing red spots throughout your body. It can emerge anywhere but commonly starts from the face or arms. It can also appear at places where you got infected. It lasts for about 1-3 days.
• Stage 2 - Papule: Usually, after 2-3 days of red spots, these leave their 2D appearance and become bumps. It can resemble a small pimple. These bumps stay for 1-2 days before progressing to the next stage.
• Stage 3 - Vesicle: In this stage, the red bumps enlarge, resembling the shape of a blister. These blisters can be painful and very itchy. However, do not give in to the urge to itch. It can worsen the infection. This stage lasts for another 2 days.
• Stage 4 - Pustule: In stage 4, your blisters become filled with pus. As they are very sensitive, refrain from touching them. This stage is the second longest phase of mpox, lasting over 5-7 days.
• Stage 5 - Scabs: After a week, the blisters dry out and form scabs. These can be a dark red or brown colour. It indicates that you are almost at the end of your illness. These fall off slowly within 7-14 days.

What are the risk factors for MPX?

Monkeypox does not discriminate against its victims. Anyone can get this infection, but certain people are at a higher risk. It includes people:

• With multiple sexual partners
• With a weak immune system
• Those who work in the healthcare sector
• Those who have close contact with an infected individual
• Suffering from sexually transmitted diseases (STIs)
• Who is pregnant
• Infected with eczema
   

How Does Monkeypox Spread?

Monkeypox, regardless of its Clade I or Clade II status, can spread via personal contact. It can include direct contact, touching or sharing objects with an infected person or from animals.

This includes direct casual contact, such as hugging or touching red bumps, as well as sexual contact. However, it is unlikely that you will get infected from pets. It is more common in African countries where mpox is endemic.

The virus can also spread through respiratory secretions (such as saliva and mucus) during prolonged, close, face-to-face contact.

What Causes Monkeypox?

Monkeypox symptoms are caused by the MPXV (monkeypox virus). It belongs to the smallpox family, emerging from the Orthopoxvirus genus in the Poxviridae family. Other illnesses in the same group include cowpox, vaccinia and variola.

Researchers have yet to find its natural reservoir. However, they strongly suspect its close association with squirrels and monkeys.

How Do Doctors Diagnose Monkeypox?

Doctors will usually check monkeypox symptoms to diagnose you. They may conduct a blood test as well. Typically, they swab the blisters for polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing.

Alternatively, doctors also conduct tests for measles or chickenpox to be sure.

What are the treatment options for monkeypox?

There are no antiviral drugs developed specifically for Mpox. However, antivirals like tecovirimat (TPOXX), which were developed for smallpox, may be used to treat Mpox, especially in people with severe illness or who are at high risk. 

If you live in an area where MPox is endemic, you should get a vaccine. You can also get the vaccine up to 4 days after being exposed to the virus.

For pregnant women, doctors often use TPOXX (tecovirimat), an antiviral drug. Additionally, they can also use Vaccinia Immune Globulin (VIG-IV) as an alternative.

What is the prognosis of monkeypox?

Symptoms of mpox are milder than smallpox. You need close physical contact with an infected person to get it. The infection resolves on its own after a few weeks. However, there are certain complications which can arise. They are:

• Vision loss
• Pneumonia
• Bacterial infection
• Myopericarditis
• Encephalitis
• Problem breathing
   

Therefore, addressing monkeypox symptoms early is essential to reduce your chances of getting complications.

Final Thoughts

Staying informed about monkeypox symptoms empowers you to respond calmly and responsibly in the face of potential outbreaks. While the disease can be serious, early recognition, timely medical care, and preventive measures significantly reduce risks.

By understanding how it spreads and following public health guidelines, you can help protect not only yourself but also those around you. Awareness and action are key to managing and containing monkeypox effectively.