Monkeypox: New resource helps answer questions

Monkeypox remains much in the news, and veterinarians may be fielding questions from clients concerned about this zoonotic virus. A new AVMA webpage provides answers.

Available for anyone to use as a resource, including clients, the monkeypox webpage pulls together the basic information that’s critical for pet owners. For example:

• People can catch monkeypox from animals, but the chance of this in the United States is extremely low.
• The chance of your pet catching monkeypox is also extremely low. 
• Initial signs of monkeypox in animals are similar to signs of other, much more common diseases. 
• If you suspect your pet or another animal has monkeypox, contact your veterinarian. 

Scientific information about monkeypox

The webpage also answers a broad range of other important questions about monkeypox, ranging from clinical signs and treatment to the virus’ origin and history:

• Where does monkeypox come from?
• How is it transmitted?
• What are the signs of monkeypox?
• What animal species are vulnerable?
• How is monkeypox definitively diagnosed?
• How is monkeypox treated and controlled?
• How can animal-to-human transmission be prevented?

Public health and zoonotic diseases

You can find the new monkeypox webpage with other public health resources on the AVMA website. AVMA also provides science-based resources on numerous other zoonotic diseases, including avian influenza, rabies, and more.