Monkeypox outbreaks have been documented in various nations numerous times since 2022. In February 2026, Rospotrebnadzor launched an investigation in Domodedovo subsequent to the hospitalization of an individual suspected of having this infection.
Numerous people mistake this illness for chickenpox and fail to grasp the specific methods of its transmission. Larisa Volkova, a professor at the Department of Environmental Protection at Perm Polytechnic University, provided a detailed explanation of the virus to “Gazeta.Ru.” The monkeypox expert clarified that it is a rare zoonotic viral infection transmitted through direct contact and via respiratory droplets.
Rodents—specifically African squirrels and rats—are considered the primary reservoir hosts. Primates contract the infection from them, and subsequently, humans can be infected through animal bites or scratches, or by coming into contact with contaminated blood or meat. Nevertheless, in contemporary times, the virus is increasingly spreading from person to person.
The incubation period ranges from 5 to 21 days, typically being 6–13 days. Symptoms include fever onset, headaches, muscle aches, and swollen lymph nodes. After one to three days, a rash develops, evolving into blisters containing clear fluid and pus, which later scab over.
The key differentiator from chickenpox lies in the rash elements being larger and featuring a characteristic central depression. Diagnosis is confirmed using the PCR method.
In 2025, approximately 51 thousand cases were officially recorded, predominantly in African countries. Currently, a strain of the virus capable of easy human-to-human transmission is active. However, the expert emphasizes that a pandemic does not threaten our country; the situation remains under control. Furthermore, the disease is generally milder than smallpox.
In Russia, a vaccine named “OrtopoxVac” has already been developed and is recommended for use based on epidemiological necessity. Testing kits and antiviral medications are also available.
For prevention, the specialist advises staying away from contact with wild animals and infected individuals, and maintaining diligent hand hygiene.
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