What is Monkeypox and How to Get Tested?
Monkeypox, or Mpox, is a highly infectious viral disease that spreads from person to person. For years, cases of monkeypox1 in humans occurred only in remote villages in rural areas of Africa without adequate medical staff or resources. However, monkeypox has recently spread to many other parts of the world, making it an epidemic.
If you want to know more about the severity and dangers of monkeypox, including methods of prevention and ways to get tested, you have come to the right place. Monkeypox, while dangerous, can be prevented with proper testing and vaccination as long as you know your options.
What is Monkeypox?
Monkeypox is a viral disease first discovered in the late 1950s and belonged to the same family of viruses (orthopoxviruses) to which smallpox belongs. While monkeypox hasn’t been a widespread problem in the United States, it could soon become one because of how contagious and widespread it has become.
Growing concern about monkeypox has led to increased awareness, testing, and prevention of the disease. Monkeypox does not discriminate based on age, race, or gender; everyone is prone to the disease.
Monkeypox Symptoms
The tricky thing about monkeypox is that you can get exposed to the disease but not show symptoms for up to three weeks. Once you start displaying symptoms, they can last several weeks, even up to a month. Here are some of the primary symptoms and signs of Mpox.
- A rash similar to what happens with chickenpox or the shingles
- Flu-like symptoms that worsen several days after they start
- Feeling tired and exhausted all the time
- Muscle and body aches
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Headaches
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Chills
Except for the skin rash, many of the symptoms of monkeypox are similar to those of Covid and other viral infections. Therefore, rash remains the most indicative and uncomfortable sign of monkeypox. Your rash may consist of tiny blisters that gradually grow and fill with pus. As the disease progresses, these blisters eventually harden, get crusty, and fall off independently.
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How is Monkeypox Transmitted?
Part of the reason that monkeypox has become so widespread is that it’s highly contagious. Monkeypox transmission is through direct contact with something contaminated with the disease. This contact may include people, animals, clothing, and other objects. Infection typically requires the person to either ingest the virus or have it enter through a cut or lesion on the skin.
Why Get Tested for Monkeypox?
If you were recently in a part of the world with a monkeypox epidemic, it’s important to get tested because you can carry the disease for up to three weeks before showing symptoms.
By that time, you may have unintentionally transmitted it to other people. While monkeypox might not be deadly or overly harmful to you, it can be fatal for people with compromised immune systems or underlying health conditions. Getting tested is especially important if you’re showing signs of the monkeypox rash.
How to Get Tested for Monkeypox
If you’re concerned and want to get tested for monkeypox, you’ll have to go to a hospital, medical center, urgent care facility or call for at-home test. There, your doctor will ask questions about where you’ve been to determine if you may have come into contact with monkeypox.
If monkeypox is possible and you display symptoms and a rash, they will administer their test.
Monkeypox testing entails:
- Your healthcare provider will take a swab and aggressively run several lesions on your rash.
- They will send the swab to a lab for further testing.
- In several days, you’ll know whether or not you have monkeypox.
- In the meantime, you should avoid public areas so that you don’t unintentionally spread the disease.
The monkeypox test can be somewhat painful and uncomfortable, but it is a necessary step to stop the spread of the disease. Schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider once you think you’re no longer a disease carrier. Most cases of monkeypox go away in two to three weeks.
Summary
Monkeypox has a long incubation period, so getting tested as soon as possible is vital if you suspect that you might have monkeypox to help curb the spread of the disease.
If traveling to an area with a current Mpox outbreak, you should take the necessary precautions to ensure you don’t contract the disease. These healthy precautions include consuming clean drinking water and trusted foods, regular hand washing, and upkeeping general hygiene standards during your journey. Also, consider getting the monkeypox vaccine to reduce your risk of getting infected during your trip.
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Learn MoreLab Testing - Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it important to do lab tests occasionally?
It is important to do lab tests occasionally because they can provide valuable information about an individual's health and help to identify potential health issues early on. Lab tests can measure a wide range of factors, including blood count, cholesterol levels, liver and kidney function, and hormone levels, and can provide insight into an individual's overall health and wellness. Additionally, lab tests can help to diagnose and monitor the progression of certain medical conditions, such as diabetes and heart disease, and can help to identify any potential health risks or concerns. By doing lab tests occasionally, individuals can take proactive steps to maintain their health and wellbeing and reduce the risk of potential health problems in the future.
How accurate are lab tests?
Overall, lab tests are generally considered to be accurate and reliable, but there is always a chance of error and it is important to consult with a healthcare professional to interpret the results.
How is a blood sample collected for lab testing?
A blood sample for lab testing is typically collected through a process called venipuncture, which involves inserting a small needle into a vein to draw blood. This is usually done on the inside of the elbow or the back of the hand.
What does a routine blood test cover?
A routine blood test is used to check for a range of things, including your blood count and the levels of certain chemicals and substances in your blood. Blood tests can also be used to check how well certain organs, such as your liver and kidneys, are functioning.
What does routine lab work cover?
Routine lab work typically includes a blood test, which is used to check for a range of things, including your blood count and the levels of certain chemicals and substances in your blood. In addition to a blood test, routine lab work may also include other tests, such as urine and stool tests, which can help diagnose and monitor conditions related to the kidneys, liver, and digestive system.
Can a blood test identify cancer?
In some cases, cancer can be detected with a blood test. However, not all cancers can be detected with a blood test, and some blood tests can produce false-positive or false-negative results.
Can a blood test find other particular issues like problems with the heart, liver, or kidneys?
Yes, a blood test can sometimes be used to detect heart, liver, and kidney problems. Blood tests can also be used to measure the levels of certain substances in your blood, such as cholesterol and glucose, which can help diagnose and monitor conditions such as heart disease and diabetes. In addition, a blood test can check your blood count, which can provide information about the health of your red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. However, it is important to note that a blood test is not always able to detect heart, liver, and kidney problems, and other tests, such as imaging scans or biopsies, may be needed to confirm a diagnosis.
What distinguishes a diagnostic test from a screening test?
A screening test is a type of test that is used to identify people who may be at increased risk of a particular condition, such as cancer or heart disease. In contrast, a diagnostic test is a type of test that is used to confirm or rule out a suspected diagnosis. So, the main difference between a screening test and a diagnostic test is the purpose for which the test is being performed.
Why do lab tests occasionally need to be repeated?
One common reason is that the initial test results were inconclusive or unclear, and repeating the test can help provide more accurate results. Lab tests may also be repeated if the initial results were abnormal and more information is needed to diagnose or monitor a condition. In addition, some lab tests are designed to be repeated on a regular basis, such as to monitor the effectiveness of a treatment or to check for any changes in a person's health over time. Finally, lab tests may be repeated if the initial test was performed incorrectly, or if there was some other problem with the sample that was collected.
Does having normal lab test results indicate I shouldn't worry about anything?
Having normal lab test results does not necessarily mean that you have nothing to worry about. Additionally, lab tests are not always able to detect all health conditions, and some conditions may not produce abnormal test results until they have progressed to a more advanced stage.
What should I do after I have my lab test results?
After you have your lab test results, it is always best to discuss them with your healthcare provider. Your healthcare provider will be able to interpret the results in the context of your overall health and medical history, and they will be able to recommend any necessary follow-up tests or treatments.
What is the cost of a lab test?
In general, the cost of a lab test can range from a few dollars to several hundred dollars. It is always best to consult with your doctor or healthcare provider to get an accurate estimate of the cost of a lab test.
How is a blood sample for a lab test collected?
A blood sample for a lab test is typically collected through a process called venipuncture. This involves using a needle and syringe to draw blood from a vein, typically in the arm. The skin is cleaned with an antiseptic solution and a tourniquet is placed around the upper arm to help make the veins more visible. The healthcare provider performing the venipuncture will then insert the needle into a vein and collect the required amount of blood. The blood sample is then sent to a laboratory for testing.
Should I do anything to prepare for lab tests?
It is generally a good idea to speak with your doctor or healthcare provider to determine what, if any, preparations are necessary for your lab tests. In general, it is a good idea to follow any instructions provided by your healthcare provider, such as fasting for a certain amount of time before the test or avoiding certain medications. It is also a good idea to bring a list of all medications you are currently taking to your lab appointment.
Why is it necessary to fast before some tests?
Fasting before certain lab tests is often necessary because certain substances in the blood, such as glucose and certain fats, can affect the results of the test. By fasting, you are allowing your body to metabolize these substances, which can provide more accurate test results. Additionally, some tests require that you fast in order to properly prepare your body for the test.
Will a cup of coffee before my lab test mess with the results?
Whether or not you can have a cup of coffee before your test will depend on the specific test that you are undergoing and any instructions provided by your healthcare provider. If you are unsure about whether or not you can have a cup of coffee before your test, it is always best to ask your healthcare provider for advice.
Can my lab test get affected by diet or medications?
Yes, your diet and medications can affect the results of your lab tests.
What do the lab test results mean?
The specific meaning of your lab test results will depend on the specific test that was performed and the reference range provided by the laboratory. The reference range is the range of values that is considered normal for a healthy person, and it is used to interpret the results of your lab test. If your test results fall within the reference range, it generally means that there is nothing unusual or concerning about your test results. However, if your test results are outside of the reference range, it may indicate a potential health concern that should be discussed with your healthcare provider.
Where are the reference (normal) ranges for lab tests?
The reference ranges for lab tests, also known as normal ranges, are determined by the laboratory that performs the test. These ranges are based on a large number of test results from healthy individuals, and they are used to interpret the results of your lab test. The reference range for each test is typically provided on the laboratory report along with your test results.
What if my lab test result is outside the reference range?
If your lab test result is outside of the reference range, it may indicate a potential health concern that should be discussed with your healthcare provider. Additionally, the reference range is just a general guide, and there may be other factors that can affect your test results.
How can I improve my lab test results?
There are several steps you can take to improve your lab test results. First, it is important to follow any instructions provided by your healthcare provider when preparing for a lab test, such as fasting for a certain amount of time before the test or avoiding certain medications. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help improve your lab test results. This includes eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and not smoking. If you have a chronic health condition, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, it is important to manage it properly and follow your healthcare provider's recommendations for treatment.
Does having abnormal lab test results indicate that I have a health issue?
Having abnormal lab test results does not necessarily mean that you have a health issue. There are many factors that can affect the accuracy of lab test results, such as your diet, medications, and other medical conditions. Additionally, the reference range used to interpret your test results is just a general guide, and there may be other factors that can affect your test results.
