It' s still unclear whether people without any symptoms can spread the virus or not.
“Monkeypox is not as contagious as the virus that causes COVID-19,” Dr. Gopalan says.
That said, it’s the disease’seffect on the skinthat leaves us with a lot of questions.
Carmen Jiménez / EyeEm
What is a monkeypox rash?
At times, these lesions may be painful.
From beginning to end, the rash can last anywhere from two to four weeks.
How can you tell if your rash is monkeypox?
It can be scary to wonder if any skin blemish you develop could actually be monkeypox.
That said, there are actually a couple things that distinguish a monkeypox lesion from the rest.
One defining factor is the accompanying symptoms that typically flare up within one to four days of the rash.
(To learn more about distinguishing features of monkeypox lesions, checkhere.)
But remember: Only a doctor can confirm a monkeypox diagnosis.
When should you see a doctor?
How do you take care of a monkeypox rash?
This can also treat the pain that comes with the lesions, but it will not necessarily heal them.
“These can weaken your immune system and aggravate an outbreak,” she explains.
While the lesions are healing, Dr. Colombo recommends letting them breathe.
To help manage the pain, Dr. Hsu recommends pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, and/or takingoatmeal baths.
Not only will this help with scarring, but it also minimizes the spread of the disease.
Can monkeypox lesions affect the skin long-term?
“In most cases, patients recover completely,” Dr. Hsu says.
“Although some cases have resulted in scarring.”
you’ve got the option to check to see if you fall into the latter grouphere.
Read more about health and skin conditions here:
Now, watch a derm treat her own melasma:
