What It Really Feels Like to Have Monkeypox

Since the global monkeypox outbreak began in May 2022, more than 22,000 cases have been confirmed in countries around the world. More than 5,000 of those cases have been recorded in the U.S., with many clustered in hotspots including New York and California. The virus, which often results in a blister-like rash and spreads through close contact, has so far predominantly affected men who have sex with men. Even as cases tick up and monkeypox gains public attention, however, it can still be difficult to find information about testing, treatment, and vaccines. Many people who fear they are at risk or infected are left to seek answers on their own. [time-brightcove not-tgx=”true”] Three people who have had monkeypox spoke with TIME about their experience. They described it as both a physically and mentally difficult disease, one that caused stigma, confusion, and pain. “It was terrifying,” said Matthew Cancel, a publicist in New York City. “I really was in it alone.” Each shared their story in hopes of helping others. Luke Brown, age 29 Project manager at a technology company; New York City Courtesy of Luke Brown Surviving monkeypox has turned Brown into an activist, and he now tries to help other people avoid the physical and bureaucratic torment that comes with having the disease. But first, he experienced all of that himself. My friends and I in the gay community in New York are a pretty health-conscious bunch. We’re always tracking t...
Source: TIME: Health - Category: Consumer Health News Authors: Tags: Uncategorized healthscienceclimate monkeypox Source Type: news