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What are the symptoms of monkeypox?

Sep 13, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
In general, the main symptoms of monkeypox include fever, rash, lymphadenopathy (swollen lymph nodes), muscle aches, and headache. If experiencing any discomfort, it is recommended to seek timely medical consultation and treatment at a正规 hospital. Additionally, some patients may also experience symptoms such as sore throat, fatigue, and decreased appetite. During the illness, proper isolation measures should be taken to avoid close contact with others, and the skin should be kept clean and dry.

Under normal circumstances, the main symptoms of monkeypox include fever, rash, lymphadenopathy (swollen lymph nodes), myalgia (muscle pain), and headache. If discomfort symptoms appear, it is recommended to seek timely diagnosis and treatment at a regular hospital. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Fever

Monkeypox is caused by infection with the monkeypox virus. After the virus enters the body, it stimulates the immune system, triggering an inflammatory response that affects the body's temperature-regulating center, leading to fever. The patient's body temperature is often above 38.5°C, commonly accompanied by chills. Fever typically lasts for 1-3 days, although in some cases it may extend to 5 days.

2. Rash

The virus replicates within skin cells, damaging skin tissue and triggering localized inflammation, which leads to the appearance of a rash. The rash typically appears 1-3 days after the onset of fever, starting on the face and gradually spreading to the limbs and trunk. Initially, it presents as macules (flat discolored areas on the skin), which then progress to papules (small solid raised bumps), followed by vesicles (blisters). The vesicles become cloudy, rupture, and finally crust over and fall off. The entire process usually lasts about 2-4 weeks.

3. Lymphadenopathy (Swollen Lymph Nodes)

The virus invades the lymph nodes, causing inflammation that leads to swelling. Patients may experience noticeable swelling of lymph nodes in areas such as the neck, armpits, and groin. These swollen lymph nodes can be felt as round or oval nodules upon touch and may be tender when pressed.

4. Myalgia (Muscle Pain)

The virus and its metabolic products irritate the muscle tissues, triggering an inflammatory response that causes muscle pain. Patients often feel generalized muscle fatigue and pain, with increased discomfort during movement. In severe cases, it may affect normal activities such as walking or lifting the arms.

5. Headache

The systemic inflammatory response caused by viral infection, or direct viral stimulation of the head's nerves and blood vessels, can lead to headaches. Patients often experience a feeling of pressure or stabbing pain in the head, with varying intensity. Some patients may also experience dizziness and mental fatigue.

In addition, some patients may also experience symptoms such as sore throat, general weakness, and reduced appetite. During the illness, patients should isolate themselves to avoid close contact with others, keep the skin clean and dry, and avoid scratching the rash to prevent infection.

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