Chickenpox vs Monkeypox in Monsoon: Key Differences and Risks

Chickenpox vs Monkeypox in Monsoon: Key Differences and Risks

This blog compares and contrasts two viral skin infections, monkeypox vs chickenpox that can surge during the monsoon. It explores the causes and transmission methods of each disease, highlighting key differences in their symptoms, complications, and treatment options. Read on to know more.

This blog compares and contrasts two viral skin infections, monkeypox vs chickenpox that can surge during the monsoon. It explores the causes and transmission methods of each disease, highlighting key differences in their symptoms, complications, and treatment options. Read on to know more.

Causes and Transmission

Chickenpox is caused by the highly contagious virus, the varicella-zoster virus which spreads primarily through direct contact with the infected person's skin lesions or respiratory droplets. This virus can also be transmitted through contact with any contaminated surface or object. Interestingly, the varicella-zoster virus can remain dormant in the body and reactivate later in life, causing a condition known as shingles.

On the other hand, monkeypox is caused by the monkeypox virus, which belongs to Orthopoxvirus genus. Monkeypox is less contagious than chickenpox and is typically transmitted through close physical contact with an infected individual, his/her bodily fluids, or contaminated materials. The virus can also spread through respiratory droplets during face-to-face conversations for extended periods. There is further proof that the monkeypox virus can be transferred through intimate contact. This, therefore, clearly shows the reason for higher levels of watchfulness and learning the dissimilarities highlighting chicken pox vs monkeypox.