What is Mpox
Mpox is a disease caused by the monkeypox virus. It is in the same virus family as smallpox. Mpox can cause a rash or sores and flu-like symptoms.
There are two types of mpox: clade I and clade II. Both types spread, are treated, and can be prevented in the same ways.
There are ongoing outbreaks of clade I mpox in Central and Eastern Africa, which began in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in 2023. There are outbreaks in some countries in Europe as well. A small number of cases have also been reported in the United States. Right now, the risk of getting clade I mpox in the United States is low.
Mpox Vaccination
HCHD has Mpox vaccine available for those individuals who are interested, including people without health insurance. JYNNEOS is a 2-dose vaccine that helps protect against mpox. The second dose is given 4 weeks after the first dose for the best protection. Both doses are needed for best protection.
For those who have health insurance, many healthcare providers and local pharmacies also now offer the Mpox vaccine, providing more convenient access for those looking to protect themselves. You can schedule an appointment at your local CVS Pharmacy here.
Read more about the CDC recommendations for who should get vaccinated.
Anyone interested in vaccination can call 410-313-7500 to schedule an appointment. Operators are standing by Monday - Friday during regular business hours. Individuals with health/medical questions about Mpox should first contact their healthcare provider. Individuals may also email the Health Department at askhealth@howardcountymd.gov or call 410-313-7500.
Mpox can spread from animals to people and from person to person through close contact.
It can spread by:
- Touching the rash or sores of someone with mpox
- Touching items used by someone with mpox, such as towels or bedding
- Contact with saliva, mucus, body fluids, or sores
- Hugging, kissing, massaging, or sexual contact with someone who has mpox
Most people with mpox have mild symptoms and get better on their own in a few weeks. Mpox is rarely deadly, and most people survive.
Symptoms usually start 5 to 21 days after a person is exposed to the virus. A rash may appear 1 to 3 days after a fever starts. The illness usually lasts 2 to 4 weeks.
Symptoms may include:
- A rash or sores on the face, mouth, hands, feet, chest, genitals, or anus
- Sore throat, cough, or stuffy nose
- Headache
- Muscle aches or back pain
- Fever
- Chills
- Swollen glands
- Feeling very tired
- Contact your healthcare provider if you have a new or unexplained rash or sores.
- Tell them you are concerned about mpox.
- If you do not have a healthcare provider, contact your local health department.
- Stay away from other people until a healthcare provider checks you.
- Avoid close contact with other people and animals until a healthcare provider checks you.
- If you are waiting for test results, follow the same safety steps.
- If your test is positive, stay isolated until your rash has healed, all scabs have fallen off, and new skin has formed.
Mpox can spread between animals and people. Animals can get mpox through bites or scratches, contact with body fluids or sores, or contact with items like bedding that have the virus on them.
At this time, there have been no reported cases of a person spreading mpox to a pet.
Treatment depends on how sick a person is. Most people recover from mpox within 2 to 4 weeks with rest, pain relief, and supportive care. Some antiviral medicines, such as TPOXX, may help people who are very sick or have weak immune systems. Discuss with your healthcare provider which treatment option is best for you.
Healthcare providers in Howard County who believe they have a patient with Mpox should contact the Infectious Disease Surveillance and Response team by calling 410-313-1412. Providers may also email infectiousdisease@howardcountymd.gov for assistance.