INFORMATION ON MPOX

What is Mpox: 

Mpox is a rare but serious disease that is caused by the MPox virus. MPox can spread from infected humans, animals, and materials contaminated with the virus.  Vaccination is highly recommended for gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men. 

What are the Symptoms: 

Mpox is typically characterized by a new, unexplained rash that develops into hard, round, fluid or pus-filled skin lesions. Early symptoms include: 

• Fever 
• Swollen lymph nodes 
• Muscle aches 
• Chills 

The Mpox rash usually develops within one to three days after fever. However, some people may experience a rash or sores first, followed by other symptoms.  Some people may also only develop a rash. 

How Does It Spread: 

People must have close, sustained contact with an infected person to get the virus. MPox can spread through: 

• Respiratory or oral secretions 
• Close physical contact
• Touching sores or body fluids 
• Touching personal belongings that have had contact with sores. 

 How Does One Avoid Mpox: 

To protect yourself from Mpox, take the following actions: 

• A safe and effective vaccine is available for certain people who have a higher risk of getting sick. 
• Avoid skin-to-skin contact, including sex and intimate contact, with someone who has a rash or other symptoms. 
• Ask your sexual partner(s) if they have a rash or other Mpox related symptoms. 
• Consider how much close, skin-to-skin contact is likely to occur at the event you plan to attend. 
• Do not share objects like bedding, towels, clothing, or utensils with someone with MPox. 
• Wash your hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. 

If you were exposed to Mpox, monitor for symptoms for 21 days after your date of last exposure. It is important to check your temperature two times per day during your monitoring period.

Where to get an Mpox Vaccine:

• Contact your healthcare provider
• San Diego County Mpox Vaccine locations: https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/sdc/hhsa/programs/phs/community_epidemiology/dc/human-monkeypox/vaccine/Vaccinations-Schedule.html
• Ivy Pharmacy, San Diego: https://www.ivypharmacysd.com/immunizations

Mpox Treatment: 

While there is no specific treatment for MPox, antiviral medications that have been used to treat smallpox can be used. People who have been exposed to someone with MPox are eligible to receive a vaccine to prevent the onset of disease or reduce the severity of symptoms.  

Vaccination helps protect against MPox when given before or shortly after an exposure. 

For More Information about Mpox:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (available in English and Spanish language): https://www.cdc.gov/poxvirus/mpox/index.html