Know the signs and symptoms of Mpox.
Mpox is rare, but it can be serious for people who get it. The mpox virus is part of the same family of viruses as the variola virus, the virus that causes smallpox. The type of mpox spreading in the United States is rarely deadly and has a fatality rate of less than 1%. Typically, most cases of mpox will resolve on their own and the risk of mpox to the public is low.
SYMPTOMS:
Anyone can get mpox through close contact, which includes sexual contact, with someone who has the virus. The mpox virus is spreading mostly through close, intimate contact with someone who has mpox. Brief interactions without physical contact are unlikely to result in transmission.
Mpox may begin with flu-like symptoms that can include:
- Fever
- Headache
- Muscle aches
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Exhaustion
Typically, a rash or skin bumps develop 1-3 days after the onset of fever, often beginning on the face then spreading to other parts of the body, including on or near the genitals or anus.
Make sure to get checked out if you develop a new rash or bumps. Mpox can look syphilis, herpes, blisters, or even acne.
Mpox can be spread from the time symptoms start until the rash has healed, all scabs have fallen off, and a fresh layer of skin has formed. The illness typically lasts 2-4 weeks.
TESTING:
People who are experiencing symptoms of mpox or think they have been exposed to mpox should contact a health care provider to discuss their concerns. Students can call CSU Health Network at (970) 491-7121 if they are concerned about symptoms or exposure. Please let staff know your specific concerns related to mpox when scheduling so that they can best meet your testing needs.
TREATMENT:
Anyone who believes they have been in close contact with someone who has mpox in the last 14 days may be eligible for the vaccine. Learn more about where to find a vaccine here.
PREVENTION:
- Avoid close, skin-to-skin contact with people who have a rash that looks like mpox.
- Avoid contact with objects and materials that a person with mpox has used, including bedding, towels and clothing.
- Wash your hands often.
The CDC recommends vaccination for people who have been exposed to mpox as well as people who are more likely to get monkeypox.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:
SOURCES:
- CDPHE: https://cdphe.colorado.gov/diseases-a-to-z/monkeypox
- Larimer County: https://www.larimer.gov/spotlights/2022/07/26/cdphe-identifies-larimer-county-s-first-monkeypox-case
- CDC: https://www.cdc.gov/poxvirus/monkeypox/response/2022/index.html
