Mpox

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Mpox is a rare disease caused by an infection with the mpox virus. It is in the same family of viruses as the virus that causes smallpox. The symptoms of monkeypox are similar to smallpox but are typically milder. Mpox is rarely fatal. Mpox is not related to chickenpox.

Mpox was discovered in 1958 when two outbreaks of a pox-like disease occurred in colonies of monkeys kept for research. Despite being named “mpox,” the source of the disease remains unknown. However, African rodents and non-human primates (like monkeys) might harbor the virus and infect people.

The first human case of mpox was recorded in 1970. Prior to the 2022 outbreak, mpox had been reported in people in several central and western African countries. Previously, almost all mpox cases in people outside of Africa were linked to international travel to countries where the disease commonly occurs or through imported animals. These cases occurred on multiple continents.

Signs and Symptoms of Monkeypox

Symptoms usually appear 7-14 days after exposure but can range from 5-21 days. Illness typically lasts for 2-4 weeks. Symptoms can include:

Fever
Headache
Muscle aches and backache
Swollen lymph nodes
Chills
Exhaustion
Respiratory symptoms (sore throat, nasal congestion, cough)
Rash, may be located on or near the genitals or anus but could also be on other areas like the hands, feet, chest, face, or mouth. The rash will go through several stages, including scabs, before healing. The rash can look like pimples or blisters and may be painful or itchy.

How Mpox Spreads

Mpox can spread to anyone through close, personal, often skin-to-skin contact, including:

Direct contact with mpox rash, scabs, or body fluids from a person with mpox.
Touching objects, fabrics (clothing, bedding, or towels), and surfaces that have been used by someone with mpox.
Contact with respiratory secretions.

It’s also possible for people to get mpox from infected animals, either by being scratched or bitten by the animal or by preparing or eating meat or using products from an infected animal. A person with mpox can spread it to others from the time symptoms start until the rash has fully healed and a fresh layer of skin has formed.

What To Do If You Have Symptoms

See a healthcare provider if you notice a new or unexplained rash or other mpox symptoms.
Avoid close contact (including intimate physical contact) with others until a healthcare provider examines you.
Avoid close contact with pets or other animals until a healthcare provider examines you.
If you’re waiting for test results, follow the same precautions.
If your test result is positive, stay isolated until your rash has healed, all scabs have fallen off, and a fresh layer of intact skin has formed.

Mpox 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 objects and materials that a person with mpox has used.
Wash your hands with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

There are currently two vaccines licensed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration used to prevent mpox infection- JYNNEOS and ACAM2000. There is a limited supply of vaccine and the CDC is not recommending vaccinations for the general public. Vaccines are currently being allocated to states to use for known contacts of cases and protection for those at high risk for contracting mpox.