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Mpox (formerly Monkeypox)

Background

Mpox (formerly called Monkeypox) was first discovered in 1958 in a group of research monkeys. The first human case was reported in 1970 in Africa. The smallpox vaccine could prevent mpox infection. But the vaccine has not been given to humans since the 1970's, so much of the population is unprotected.

Symptoms evolve over time.

  • After exposure, there is a period of 1-2 weeks where you might get the early symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle aches and tiredness. Then lymph node swelling begins. This could be anywhere on the body, but often in the armpit or neck.
  • After this earlier phase, the rash appears. There may be just one blister or clusters of blisters. They can occur on any part of the body. In gay or bisexual men, the blisters (lesions) are mostly being found in the anus or on the genitals.
  • These skin lesions go through stages:
    • start as red and flat
    • then raising up and blister(s) form
    • then the blister fluid looks white/yellow inside
    • then scabbing and healing.

How it is Spread

  • Mpox virus can spread from:
    • person-to-person contact, such as direct contact with the blisters or scabs
    • contact with infected body fluids that might be on bedding, towels or clothing
    • respiratory droplets (from breathing) during close contact like kissing, cuddling or sex
    • a scratch or bite from an animal with the mpox virus (rare)
    • eating the meat of an infected animal (very rare)
  • Pregnant women can spread the virus to their unborn baby.
  • Experts are not certain whether the virus is spread in semen or vaginal fluids.

Other Mpox Facts

  • Incubation Period. Symptoms start between 6-13 days after an exposure.
  • Prevention/Vaccine. There are two FDA approved vaccines (JYNNEOS and ACAM2000) being used to help prevent mpox. The vaccines can help decrease the severity of the symptoms. This may be very helpful for high-risk people. 
  • Treatment. There are no effective treatments for mpox at this time. Antivirals are being used for those at greatest risk of severe disease, such as those with weak immune systems.