Mpox: Be prepared for the next outbreak
The World Health Organization (WHO) defines Mpox as an orthopoxvirus, a virus similar to smallpox but less severe. It's transmitted from animals to humans and humans to humans. Previously, cases of human Mpox were considered rare. However, current data show rapid spread of the disease from human-to-human transmission. Nurses should be familiar with its symptoms so they can promptly isolate potentially infected individuals, ensure proper testing, and provide care.
Course Details
Overview
The World Health Organization (WHO) defines Mpox as an orthopoxvirus, a virus similar to smallpox but less severe. It's transmitted from animals to humans and humans to humans. Previously, cases of human Mpox were considered rare. However, current data show rapid spread of the disease from human-to-human transmission. Nurses should be familiar with its symptoms so they can promptly isolate potentially infected individuals, ensure proper testing, and provide care. Nurses also can advocate for these patients and educate them about infection risks and what they should do if they think they've been exposed.
Presented by:
Cathy Jo Soden, DNP, RN, APN-C
Cathy Jo Soden is a public health nurse at the Mercer County Division of Public Health in Trenton, New Jersey.
Key Learning Outcomes
- Describe Mpox and its transmission and symptoms
- Discuss the diagnosis and treatment of Mpox
- Discuss patient education strategies for Mpox prevention and treatment
