Mpox can cause a rash which may look like pimples or blisters, sometimes with flu-like symptoms (fever, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, fatigue) preceding the rash.  The rash can appear anywhere on the body including the face, inside the mouth, arms, legs, hands, feet, chest, genitals.

The monkeypox virus is most often spread between people through close physical contact with infectious sores, including during sexual relations and through respiratory secretions during prolonged, face-to-face contact such as kissing. Mpox can also be spread by touching material such as bedding, towels, clothing that an infected individual has used and have not been cleaned.  Mpox is NOT spread through casual conversation or by passing by someone with mpox in a store.

There are currently no treatments specifically for mpox. However, mpox and smallpox viruses are genetically similar, which means that antiviral drugs developed to protect against smallpox, such as tecovirimat (TPOXX), may be used to treat mpox. This treatment may be recommended for people who are more likely to get severely ill, like people with weakened immune systems, or people with complications from the infection or symptoms not controlled with supportive care. For information about treatment with TPOXX: https://www.cdc.gov/poxvirus/mpox/if-sick/treatment.html.

Jynneos is a vaccine used to prevent mpox infection. The CDC recommends vaccination against mpox for individuals at higher risk of infection. Two doses given 4 weeks apart is recommended for the best protection. The Phelps Maries County Health Department offers this vaccination. Please contact them for further information. For information about mpox vaccination and to find a vaccine locator:  https://www.cdc.gov/poxvirus/mpox/vaccines/index.html

If you are concerned that you might have symptoms of mpox or if you have been exposed to a person infected with mpox, please contact your healthcare provider. Students should contact Student Health Services by calling 573.341.4284.