Chickenpox and monkeypox are two diseases that seem to be very similar, but they are different in several key ways. Both monkeypox and chickenpox have similar symptoms of rash, fever, and discomfort, but that’s where the similarities end. What is the difference between chickenpox and monkeypox? Let’s take a look at what sets these two diseases apart from one another.

Is chickenpox related to monkeypox?

Both chickenpox and monkeypox are viral infections that cause a similar rash. The symptoms of these two diseases, however, differ slightly in terms of severity.

Since they are caused by different viruses, they are not contagious between species. For example, you cannot get monkeypox from your pet dog or cat because dogs and cats do not carry monkeypox.

You can only get it from other humans who have been infected with it. However, if you have had chickenpox in the past, you can still get monkeypox. This is why some people call it human smallpox.

What is the difference between chickenpox and monkeypox?

While these two illnesses may sound very similar, they are actually quite different. Despite sharing a common name, monkeypox is actually much more like smallpox than chickenpox. Let’s explore the difference between these two illnesses to learn more about what they have in common and where they differ.

We’ll also look at who is at risk for both conditions, how you can tell if you have either illness, what symptoms to expect and treatment options for each condition.

  • To understand monkeypox vs chickenpox, it helps to know a little bit about what causes both illnesses. Both diseases are caused by viruses that infect humans. The viruses that are responsible for causing chickenpox and monkeypox belong to a family of viruses called orthopoxviruses.

These viruses have been around since ancient times, infecting humans as well as other animals such as cattle, sheep, and horses.

  • Both types of virus spread through close contact with an infected person or animal, although monkeypox has been found in some wild rodents.