Europe and North America have detected dozens of cases of monkeypox, a  virus that passes from infected animals such as rodents to humans.

Monkeypox is a rare viral infection which is similar to human smallpox.

Monkeypox can be caught from a bite by an infected animal, or by touching its blood, body fluids, or fur.

Health officials have noted some of these infections may be transmitted through sexual contact.

Fever, muscle ache, lesions, and chills are the common symptoms of monkeypox in humans

Canada was the latest country to report it was investigating more than a  dozen suspected cases of monkeypox after Spain and Portugal detected  more than 40 possible and verified cases.

The incubation period (interval from infection to onset of symptoms) of  monkeypox is usually from 6 to 13 days but can range from 5 to 21 days,  according to the WHO.