What is monkeypox?
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “monkeypox is a rare but potentially serious viral illness that typically begins with flu-like illness and swelling of the lymph nodes and progresses to a widespread rash on the face and body.”1
How is monkeypox transmitted?
According to the CDC “transmission of monkeypox virus occurs when a person comes into contact with the virus from an animal, human, or materials contaminated with the virus. The virus enters the body through broken skin (even if not visible), respiratory tract, or the mucous membranes (eyes, nose, or mouth).” Human-to-human transmission of monkeypox is thought to occur primarily through large respiratory droplets. Respiratory droplets generally cannot travel more than a few feet, so prolonged face-to-face contact is required. Other human-to-human methods of transmission include direct contact with body fluids or lesion material, and indirect contact with lesion material, such as through contaminated clothing or linens that previously touched the infectious rash or body fluids.”2
According to the WHO “Monkeypox is transmitted to humans through close contact with an infected person or animal, or with material contaminated with the virus. Monkeypox virus is transmitted from one person to another by close contact with lesions, body fluids, respiratory droplets and contaminated materials such as bedding.”3
How can Lysol products help prevent the spread of monkeypox?
While the main route of transmission appears to be close contact with an infected person, hand and surface hygiene measures at key moments will help to reduce the spread of many infectious diseases, including the monkeypox virus.
Specific Lysol products have demonstrated effectiveness against viruses similar to monkeypox on hard, non-porous surfaces. In accordance with the EPA Viral Emerging Pathogen Policy, the following Lysol products can be used against monkeypox, when used in accordance with the directions for use.
- Lysol Disinfecting Spray EPA 777-99
- Lysol Disinfecting Wipes, EPA 777-114
- Lysol Peroxide Action Multi Purpose Cleaner, EPA 777-126
- Lysol Mold and Mildew Remover – Bleach, EPA 777-83
- Lysol Multipurpose Cleaner, EPA 777-89
- Professional Lysol Bathroom Foamer, EPA 777-135
- Professional Lysol Heavy Duty Bathroom Cleaner, EPA 675-54
- Professional Lysol Brand III & Lysol IC Disinfectant Spray, EPA 777-99
