What is mpox?

Mpox is a rare virus that has begun to spread to the United States and throughout Europe. The first human case was discovered in 1970 and has mostly been shown in central and western Africa. Doctors there have been treating mpox for decades.

Prior communications referred to this disease as monkeypox. We have adopted the use of the term "mpox" in line with WHO guidelines.

 

How does mpox spread most commonly?

Mpox most commonly spreads from person to person through:

• Direct contact with the rash, scabs, or body fluids
• Close personal contact, including hugging, kissing, cuddling, or sex

For more information, refer to this page by the CDC. It is important to note that mpox is not as contagious as COVID and requires much closer contact.

 

Who is at risk for mpox?

Anyone can get mpox through the methods mentioned above. You do not have to be sexually active to get mpox.

Some groups are at risk for more severe outcomes from mpox. These groups include:

• Young children (<8 years old)
• Pregnant people
• Immunocompromised people
• People with a history of atopic dermatitis or eczema

 

Is mpox a sexually transmitted disease?

No. Mpox can spread from any close contact with someone who has symptoms. This contact may happen during sex, but it can also happen many other ways. We don’t know yet if mpox can spread through semen or other fluids exchanged during sex.

 

What are the symptoms of mpox?

Symptoms include:

• A rash that looks like pimples or blisters. The rash can be on the face, inside the mouth, or other parts of the body
• Fever
• Headache
• Muscle aches and backache
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Chills
• Exhaustion

Some people may have only a rash, while others may have all of the symptoms. For more information, check this CDC page.

 

What can I do if I think I have mpox? 

See your healthcare provider if you think you might have mpox. If you have a rash, they will be able to test you and give you guidance if you do have the virus. 

Is there treatment for mpox? 

We have medicine we can use to treat severe mpox, but most people recover without. If you have symptoms, talk to your healthcare provider so you can receive treatment. 

Can I get the vaccine that protects against mpox? 

Yes! For a list of providers throughout the state, click here. If you meet the state eligibility criteria, please contact a provider directly to schedule an appointment. 

 

What do I do if I am sick with mpox?

The illness typically lasts 2-4 weeks. Anyone who has mpox should isolate until the rash is resolved, scabs have fallen off, and new skin has formed on top. If you are in pain, over the counter pain medications like Tylenol, Advil and Motrin can help. For more information on how to treat mpox, check out this page by the CDC.

To reduce the spread of mpox:

• Keep your rash clean and dry
• Don't shave over the rash
• Don’t leave home except for emergencies or medical care
• Stay away from others – people who do not need to be in the home should not visit
• Don’t have close contact with others, including sexual contact
• Do not share bedding, clothing, towels, or wash cloths; if possible, the sick person should change their own bandages and bedding while wearing disposable gloves, then wash their hands after
• Clean commonly touched surfaces and items in the home
• Wear a medical mask when in close contact with others in the home
• If possible, use a separate bathroom from others in the home
• Wash dishes and utensils with soap and warm water after use – do not share
• Limit contact with pets, specifically mammals like cats and dogs

For more information, talk to your healthcare provider and refer to this CDC guidance.

 

Who can I call if I have questions about mpox?

You can call the Stamford Department of Health at 203-977-5385. Please leave a message, and one of our public health nurses will get back to you.

 

 

 

 

Last updated: 3/20/24