Monkeypox vs. Chickenpox: Key
difference between them and other
skin illnesses or rashes

The World Health Organization (WHO) has classified the monkeypox outbreak as a global
health emergency. Many people were worried about the virus’s capacity to spread and transmit
after this dramatic increase in instances of monkeypox. And as a top private hospital in
Allahabad, we consider it our responsibility to educate people about the risks and variations
among diseases.
In this article, we’ve discussed the main distinction between chickenpox and monkeypox and
prevention measures.

What is Monkeypox?
According to CDC statistics, those infected with the monkeypox virus get a rash that may appear
on or close to their genitalia. The butthole or other bodily areas like the hands, foot, chest, face,
or mouth could have it.
Initially, the monkeypox rash resembles pimples or blisters, which may be uncomfortable or
unpleasant. Before healing, it goes through several stages, including scabs.

Dermatologist Dr. Rohit Batra of Sir Ganga Ram Hospital in New Delhi noted in an interview
with HT Lifestyle that patients may be confused about whether they have chickenpox,
monkeypox, or another type of rash because the monkeypox rash can resemble other more
common infectious rashes.
People must be able to distinguish the symptoms of monkeypox from those of other similar
rashes during its rapid spread to prevent

confusion. Dr. Batra has brought up certain
distinctions between chickenpox and monkeypox.

Difference between Chickenpox and
Monkeypox

The primary distinction is that chickenpox is brought on by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), a
member of the herpesvirus family, whereas monkeypox is brought on by the monkeypox virus, a
member of the Orthopoxvirus genus.
Fever, lethargy, headache, occasional sore throat, coughing, and swollen lymph nodes are
among the typical first-stage symptoms of monkeypox. These signs may show up four to five
days before skin rashes and lesions. Skin rashes start to show up 1–2 days after a fever in the
case of chickenpox.
Lesions from the monkeypox are larger than those from chicken pox.

Dr. Sanjeev Gupta (Professor and Head-Department of Dermatology at MM
Institute of Medical Sciences and Research) further added to the list of differences
between Monkeypox and Chickenpox and shared:

Chickenpox lesions self-limit after a week; the Monkeypox lesions do not.
● Chickenpox lesions are easily breakable, unlike Monkeypox ones.
● The monkeypox lesions take 2-4 weeks to completely heal, whereas the process is
considerably faster in chickenpox.
● The fluid inside the monkeypox rashes might result in a viral infection that can, in turn,
reduce the body’s defense mechanisms leading to more complications.
● In the case of Chickenpox, medical treatment is available, but patients often heal at home
in isolation.

How to prevent the monkeypox virus?

A smallpox vaccination can prevent monkeypox, but its usage is now restricted to clinical
studies. Limiting person-to-person transmission and reducing human contact with diseased
animals are essential to prevention. Avoid contact with infected animals to help prevent the
transmission of the monkeypox virus (especially sick or dead animals)
● Avoid coming into contact with contaminated bedding and other items.
● Cook all foods containing meat or other animal products completely.
● Wash your hands with soap and water regularly.
● Keep your distance from anyone who might be carrying the virus.

Use safe sexual practices, such as dental dams and condoms.
● When among other people, wear a mask that covers your mouth and nose.
● Frequently touched surfaces should be cleaned and disinfected.
● When caring for those who have the virus, wear personal protective equipment.

Conclusion
The global COVID-19 pandemic has drastically altered our lives and work, making the past two
years exceedingly difficult. Just as we’re settling into daily life, the media starts reporting on
monkeypox as a potential threat. However, monkeypox is a rare illness. Although we are still
learning exactly how monkeypox spreads in humans, it is transferred through intimate contact.
Avoiding contact with infected persons, washing your hands frequently, and donning a face
mask in crowded indoor areas are the best ways to safeguard yourself.

Don’t ignore skin rashes, itching, or other problems; visit our best dermatologist in
Prayagraj. As the best hospital in Prayagraj, United Medicity provides excellent care with a
team of skilled and best skin dr in Allahabad.
To know more, visit us at – https://www.unitedmedicity.com/