Mpox
Mpox, previously known as monkeypox, is a rare disease caused by infection with the mpox virus (Orthopoxvirus). Mpox virus is part of the same family of viruses that causes smallpox and not related to Chickenpox or Herpes.
Currently, the majority of cases in the US are among males who have sex with males, but anyone can get Mpox, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
- Confirmed cases in Minnesota - MDH
- 2022 outbreak - CDC
If you develop a rash (bumps, sores or blisters), are worried you might have Mpox or believe you have been exposed to it, please contact your medical provider. If you don’t have a medical provider, call Clinic 555 at 651-266-1255.
Symptoms
Mpox is a viral illness with symptoms often including a rash. The illness sometimes begins with a fever, headache, muscle aches and fatigue. Swollen lymph nodes may also be present. The rash can be widespread or just a few raised bumps which become filled with fluid (poxes). Eventually the rash crusts over and scabs develop.
Symptoms develop approximately 12 days after a person has been exposed but may be as early as 5 days and as late as 21 days.
A person is infectious from symptom onset until scabs fall off and a fresh layer of healthy skin has formed. The illness typically lasts 2-4 weeks. Most people do not have serious complications from monkeypox, but will need to stay home until they are no longer infectious.
How it spreads
Mpox spreads in different ways, but in the current outbreak most of the spread has been through sexual contact. The virus can spread from person-to-person through:
- Direct contact with infectious rash, scabs or bodily fluids.
- Respiratory secretions during prolonged, face-to-face contact, or during intimate physical contact, such as kissing, cuddling, or sex.
- Touching items (such as clothing or linens) that previously touched the infectious rash or body fluids.
- Additional ways it can spread.
Mpox can spread from the time symptoms start until the rash has fully healed and a fresh layer of skin has formed. People who do not have mpox symptoms cannot spread the virus to others.
Prevention
Take the following steps to prevent getting mpox:
- Avoid close, skin-to-skin contact with people who have a rash.
- Do not handle or touch the bedding, towels, or clothing of a person with mpox.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- What to do if you are sick with mpox.
Testing
If you develop a rash (bumps, sores or blisters), are worried you might have Mpox or believe you have been exposed to it, you are encouraged you to contact your medical provider. If you don’t have a medical provider, call Clinic 555 at 651-266-1255.
Clinic 555 can only test for Mpox if a rash is present. Testing involves a swab of the rash. If positive for Mpox, the clinic will help you anonymously notify potential contacts.
Treatment and vaccination
Treatment
There is no specific treatment for Mpox, although treatment with an antiviral may be beneficial for some individuals. Tecovirimat (TPOXX) is an antiviral that may be recommended for people who are more likely to get severely ill, like patients with weakened immune systems.
In certain situations, people who have been exposed to someone with Mpox may benefit from receiving a Mpox vaccine.
Vaccination
Vaccine availability is improving, and more people are now eligible.
Following MDH guidelines, we are prioritizing the following people for Mpox vaccination, regardless of the number of sexual partners:
- People who have been exposed to Mpox
- People living with HIV
- Males who have sex with males
- Transgender people
- And others who are at high risk
Please call Clinic 555 at 651-266-1255 for more information about getting the Mpox vaccine.
Resources for sexually active people
Resources for sexually active people
- Mpox: Get the Facts - MDH
- Social gatherings, safer sex and Mpox - CDC
- Public health advice for gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men on the recent outbreak of Mpox - WHO
Information card
- Mpox
- La Viruela Símica O Del Mono
- Mpox: Paub Kom Tseeb
- Hel’ Xaqiiqooyinka ama Xogta Caabuqa Daanyeerka
- Odeeffannoowwan Mpox Argadhaa