Doctors Notes:

Monkeypox

Jeanne R. Poel

The newest virus in the news- Monkeypox! I am sure a lot of parents have heard about the monkeypox outbreak that has spread worldwide over the past several months. Today I will review some pertinent information for parents about monkeypox.

What is Monkeypox?

  • Monkeypox is a viral illness that consists of a classic rash and may also include symptoms like fever, swollen lymph nodes, headache, sore throat, and cough.
  • Monkeypox has been around in humans since the 1970s.
  • There have been several smaller outbreaks of monkeypox over the past 50 years but the current outbreak is the largest on record.

Are children at risk of getting Monkeypox?

  • The risk of children getting infected with monkeypox is low. There have been very few infections in U.S. children so far and those infections have been mild.
  • People typically become infected by physical contact with others who have the rash or with objects (clothing, blankets, furniture) that have been in contact with the rash.
  • Less commonly people can become infected by respiratory droplets during prolonged face-to-face contact with an infected person. This usually happens between household or close contacts of the infected person.
  • Infants, young children (under 8 years of age), children with eczema and immunocompromised children may be at increased risk of severe disease if they become infected with monkeypox.
  • The CDC recommends that babies stay in a separate room and not have direct contact with parents or caregivers who are infected with monkeypox. Breastfeeding should be avoided during the contagious period, and breastmilk should be pumped and dumped.

What are the symptoms of Monkeypox?

  • The classic rash is the most obvious symptom of monkeypox. It starts as flat spots and over the course of days they become raised bumps, then clear fluid filled blisters, then pus-filled white/yellow sores. Eventually the blisters/sores become crusted over with scabs. Prior to noticing a rash, early signs may include:
  • fever
  • swollen lymph nodes
  • headache
  • sore throat
  • Monkeypox remains contagious until the scabs fall off and new skin has formed.

What if my child Is exposed to someone with Monkeypox?

If your child had close contact with someone with a case of monkeypox, your child should be monitored for symptoms for 21 days.

  • How to monitor:
    • Daily temperature checks
    • Daily full-body skin checks for a new rash
    • Look inside of your child’s mouth for sores or ulcers
    • Remind older children and teens to check for new rashes in areas covered by clothing, including genitals.

 

What should I do if my child is showing symptoms of Monkeypox?

  • Call our office! (616) 393-0166
  • Try to keep your child separate from others and have them wear a well-fitting mask when around others if over 2 years of age.
  • It is helpful to document the progression of any rashes with daily photos in a well-lit area (by a window with natural light if possible).
  • If we suspect monkeypox based on the appearance of a rash or the history of your child’s symptoms we will collect a skin swab and send it for testing.

 

How do I care for my child if they develop Monkeypox?

  • Most children do not need medication to treat their monkeypox infection. Most recover in 2-4 weeks without medication. Your child may need medication if they develop severe symptoms or if they are at higher risk for severe illness with monkeypox.
  • Pay close attention to how well your child is drinking fluids and monitor for signs of dehydration (decreased urination, dry lips/mouth).
  • Cover your child’s rash with non-adherent gauze and medical tape or bandages.
  • Remind your child to avoid touching their rash.
  • Keep other people away from your child. If possible, one parent/caregiver should provide all care for the infected child.
  • Have your child wear a well-fitting mask if they are 2 years old or older when others are taking care of them. The caregiver should also wear a well-fitting mask and gloves when touching the child and handling bandages or clothing.
  • Keep your child home from school and other activities until they are no longer contagious.
    • Remember, monkeypox is contagious until ALL scabs have fallen off AND new healthy skin has formed.