Monkeypox can survive for weeks in refrigerated food and water , according to a report by the US Department of Homeland Security ( NHS ) Science and Technology Directorate.
In Mexico there are at least 59 confirmed cases of monkeypox, the disease that has already caused a global health emergency alert.
And, although it is a virus that has been studied because it is common in Africa, now that it is spreading throughout the world, health authorities are disseminating information about how it works.
Scientists are wondering why a virus that, until this year, had had no outbreaks outside its endemic region is spreading. Now, monkeypox has already caused three deaths outside of Africa and people are wondering where this virus can be found.
Unlike the virus that causes COVID-19, the monkeypox virus is not only transmitted through saliva from person to person, but also through prolonged contact with the skin of someone infected, or with contaminated surfaces.
In this regard, the NHS warned that the monkeypox virus can survive from days to weeks in water, soil and refrigerated food.
The NHS describes the virus as “very stable” in the environment, outside the human body. And not only that, it can also live for months or years inside the scabs of infected people.
However, it has not been determined how long it can survive on certain surfaces. But there is a study, cited by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, estimates that the monkeypox virus can last for 15 days after a patient’s house is vacated.
It is also important to mention that CDCs survive on bedding, clothing, and surfaces in dark, cool, dry environments. Also, porous materials can harbor the live virus longer than other surfaces such as plastic, glass, or metal.
How to eliminate monkeypox virus?
There is currently no data showing the effectiveness of common disinfectants against monkeypox, the DHS said. However, it is recommended to clean surfaces with a bleach water solution.
Additionally, some evidence against certain linked viruses suggests that Virkon, Dettol, and Sanytex disinfectants might be effective.
Finally, it must be remembered that the virus is spread by contact with respiratory secretions and intimate contact such as sex, kissing, hugging, and prolonged face-to-face contact. Pregnant women can transmit the virus to the fetus.
