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Monkeypox signs and symptoms in kids to watch out for
Monkeypox symptoms in kids: An expert on how to recognise monkeypox infection in kids and preventive measures to follow.
Monkeypox symptoms in kids: As monkeypox cases in the UK and a couple of other countries are on rise, it is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of the viral zoonotic disease. In kids, especially, some of the monkeypox may be similar to chicken pox like rashes, fever, and aches. (Also read: Can monkeypox and Covid-19 co-exist? Here's what an expert has to say)
"Although the risk of monkey pox infection is rare and mild in kids, it can mimic the more common chicken pox.With the lockdown easing, parents are asked to be more vigilant about these viral infections," says Dr Charu Dutt Arora, Infectious Diseases Specialist and Head, Ameri Health, Asian Hospital.
Talking about the symptoms of monkeypox, that arrived in early May in UK, Dr Arora says rashes, fever and body aches are the common crossover symptoms of the "pox" diseases.
"Monkeypox infection also has lymph node swellings and severe exhaustion. The rash is peculiar, which starts from the face as a raised spot that later spreads to palms and feet and goes into a blister filled with fluid and finally into scabs which fall off eventually. The symptoms can last for 2-4 weeks," he says.
How monkeypox is different in kids as compared to adults
Dr Arora says in children, as compared to adults, the fever is generally higher (reaching 102 F) on day 2-3.
"The rash typically starts from Day 3 or 4 and goes its gradual transition. In kids, there are higher symptoms of exhaustion and weakness. They do not complain of headache mostly. Hence, hydration and fluid management with antipyretics is necessary for children," adds the expert.
Monkeypox: Preventive measure to adopt
-The most important preventive measure is hand hygiene (for 20 seconds with soap and water or alcohol-based sanitizer).
-There should be prevention of animal to human transmission.
-Cook meat thoroughly.
-Avoid any contact with person who has a rash.
-Avoid contact with any fluid or object that has been from a sick patient.
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