Misinformation spreads faster than any virus, and in a world where it can be just as deadly, the monkeypox outbreak has been a breeding ground for fear and confusion. 1 in 5 people are worried they will contract monkeypox, but how much of that concern is valid? In recent headlines, monkeypox has taken center stage. On social media especially, students in the United States have been calling for a lockdown. However, while monkeypox is growing, only 0.000375% of individuals in the United States have monkeypox, and the majority are men. In comparison to Covid 19, where ¾ Americans have had some form Covid-19.
The virus is transmitted through close contact with an infected person, such as by large respiratory droplets and contact with contaminated materials. It does not spread easily through the air or on surfaces. The symptoms of monkeypox include a skin rash, fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, low energy, and swollen lymph nodes, which last from 2 to 4 weeks. While most people recover with no lingering effects, in some instances, monkeypox can cause severe complications such as bronchopneumonia, sepsis, encephalitis, and secondary infections. It can also, in rare instances, be fatal.
Generally speaking, Seven Lakes High School students have little to be concerned about regarding the monkeypox virus. The virus is not prevalent within our immediate community; thus, again, it only remains a concern where outbreaks have been reported. As long as students practice good hygiene and stay informed through very credible sources, the risk remains low. Misinformation about monkeypox has been rampant, engendering unwarranted alarm. However the topics that are garnering attention are just not true: misinformation about how easily it spreads through the air or via contact with surfaces, or that this is some kind of new, very dangerous virus. It is important to rely on credible sources of information and not fall prey to sensationalized headlines.
Such misinformation may lead to serious consequences, including unnecessary panic and stigmatization of the people concerned. To properly vet your sources, always check for information from reputable health organizations; cross-reference facts from multiple reliable outlets; and avoid sources that tend to use fear mongering or unverified claims.
While monkeypox is serious, it is not an apocalyptic threat social media makes it seem. If we stay informed on the issue and take adequate care, we could keep this risk in check and thus protect ourselves and our communities.
