Mpox (Monkeypox)

What is monkeypox?

Mpox is an infection caused by the monkeypox virus. It can cause rash, fever, fatigue, and swollen lymph nodes. The illness is usually mild. However, people with weak immune systems are at higher risk for more severe illness.

Mpox is part of the same family of viruses that causes smallpox. The virus got its name because it was first found in monkeys. Mpox is not related to chickenpox. 

The main way mpox spreads is through close contact with the rash or body fluids of someone with the virus. It can also spread from infected animals to people.

There is no specific FDA-approved treatment for mpox. The mpox vaccine can help prevent infection for people at higher risk or who have been exposed to the virus.  

Symptoms of mpox

Signs and symptoms of mpox include: 

• Skin rash with bumps or sores that may look like blisters or pimples  
• Fever
• Chills
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Muscle aches
• Swollen lymph nodes

Mpox rash

The most common symptom of mpox is a rash, which can be painful.

• The sores are often filled with fluid and then pop.  
• The rash can spread to different parts of the body, including the face, hands, feet, and genital area.
• Over time, the sores dry up, form scabs, and may be itchy.

Symptoms usually develop within 3 weeks (21 days) after exposure to the virus. The illness often lasts for 2–4 weeks.

Diagnosis of mpox

Your health care provider will do a physical exam and ask about symptoms and possible exposure to the virus. 

To confirm a mpox diagnosis, your health care provider will take samples from the rash to be tested in the lab. They may also do blood tests.  

If you suspect you have mpox, stay home and avoid contact with others until you know your results. If the test is positive, take steps to prevent spreading the virus to others.

Treatment of mpox

The infection is usually mild. Most people only need supportive care, such as medicines for pain or fever. 

People at higher risk for more severe illness may be treated with antiviral medicines. People are more likely to become sick from mpox if they:

• Have a weak immune system
• Are under 1 year of age
• Have had severe eczema
• Are pregnant 

Mpox vaccine

Mpox vaccines may be recommended if you: 

• Are at higher risk for mpox infection
• Have been exposed to the virus   

If you have been exposed to mpox or think you might be eligible for a vaccine, talk to your health care provider. 

How mpox spreads

Mpox spreads through close contact with the virus. This includes:

• Skin-to-skin contact with someone with the mpox rash
• Kissing, hugging, or having sex with someone with the mpox virus
• Contact with bedding, clothing, towels, or other objects used by someone with the virus 
• From mother to child during pregnancy or birth
• Close contact with a live or dead animal infected with the virus

How to prevent the spread of mpox

A person can spread mpox from the time that symptoms start until the scabs fall off, the skin has healed, and new skin has formed. To prevent the spread of mpox to others: 

• Stay home and avoid contact with people.
• Keep your rash covered as much as possible.
• Do not share items that you have touched with others.
• Wash hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Clean and disinfect household surfaces.
• Wash and dry bedding, towels, and clothing on the highest temperature setting allowed for the fabric. 

Questions to ask your care team

• What should I do if I have been exposed to mpox?
• How is mpox treated?
• What are the potential complications of mpox?
• Who should get an mpox vaccine?
• Do I need to worry about an mpox outbreak in my area?

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