Monkeypox: What Parents Need to Know to Prevent It in Children
In 2024, especially in the last 2 months, the World Health Organization (WHO) has reported an unusually high increase in cases of Monkeypox in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. In response to the current outbreak of Monkeypox and the risk of spreading to other countries, WHO has declared a public health emergency of international concern regarding the Monkeypox outbreak.
Monkeypox is a very rare disease caused by the monkeypox virus. It is a contagious disease that spreads from person to person through close contact, making prevention extremely important. The disease is often severe in immunocompromised individuals, pregnant women, and especially children. Therefore, it is essential for parents to recognize the early signs of the disease, monitor for worsening symptoms, and take their child to a medical facility for timely treatment.
The most distinctive symptom is a rash resembling characteristic pustules, while other symptoms include fever, headache, muscle pain, back pain, swollen lymph nodes, chills, and exhaustion. The virus can also cause respiratory symptoms such as sore throat, nasal congestion, or cough.
What should parents do to prevent diseases in children?
– Avoid contact with animals that are at risk of carrying the virus that causes monkeypox (sick animals, dead animals in areas where monkeypox occurs, animals suspected of being infected, etc.).
– Ensure food is cooked thoroughly, drink boiled water, and consume animals with clear origin that have been inspected.
– Avoid contact with individuals at risk of the disease.
– Regularly wash hands with soap and water or use alcohol-based hand sanitizers, especially after coming into contact with others.
– Get vaccinated against smallpox.
To prevent monkeypox from occurring in children, as soon as there are signs of the disease, parents should take the child to a reputable medical facility for timely examination to receive appropriate and correct treatment. The International Pediatric Center, Hai Phong International Obstetrics and Pediatrics Hospital, with a team of experienced doctors and specialists along with modern equipment, is always ready to receive, diagnose, and continuously treat pediatric diseases, so parents can completely trust the health of their beloved children. If parents wish to take their child for examination, please contact us via HOTLINE: 0225.385.9999.
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