Many conditions can cause red spots to appear on the skin, including bug bites, pimples, and ringworm. Mpox and chickenpox are two viral infections that also present with skin rashes, making it challenging to distinguish between them.
Both mpox, also known as monkeypox virus, and chickenpox start with a fever before any marks resembling blisters or pimples emerge. The sores from both viruses fill with fluid, enlarge, scab over, and eventually disappear. However, there are key differences in their presentation.
Mpox sores tend to be larger and deeper in the skin compared to those caused by chickenpox. Additionally, mpox sores appear simultaneously across the body. In contrast, chickenpox sores manifest in waves; they may first appear on the chest, back, and face before spreading to other areas like the forearms and legs. Consequently, not all chickenpox sores will be at the same stage of development at any given time.
Another distinguishing factor is discomfort: mpox sores are typically extremely painful while chickenpox sores are very itchy.
The duration of these conditions also varies. Chickenpox sores generally last about two weeks whereas mpox sores can persist for two to four weeks.
