Do I have Mpox (monkeypox)?

Mpox (previously called monkeypox) is a disease caused by a virus. It spreads by coming into contact with an infected person by touching their rash or sores. This includes during sex, including when skin is touching skin for a period of time. You can also get Mpox by coming into contact with infected animals and coming into contact with respiratory secretions (mucus and saliva) from an infected individual. It can be spread by touching objects, fabrics, and surfaces that have been used by someone with Mpox.

Do I have Mpox?

Symptoms of Mpox begin within 3 weeks of exposure. Initially you may feel like you have the flu, with symptoms like a fever, headache, muscle aches, and exhaustion. Within a few days of the start of fever, a rash begins.

Not everyone develops all of the symptoms, and the rash may appear as only a few lesions. If you think you may have been exposed to Mpox or have Mpox symptoms, talk to your doctor or pharmacist and isolate yourself from others.

What does the Mpox rash look like?

A Mpox rash can appear as spots, pimples, blisters, lesions, or crater-like ulcers. It can start in one area of your body (including the genitals or in your mouth) and spread to other parts of your body.

Related Questions

• How do I keep from getting Mpox (monkeypox)?
• How do I get Mpox (Monkeypox)?
• Should I be Concerned about a Monkeypox (Mpox) Outbreak?

Does the Mpox rash itch?

No, not at first. The rash goes through several phases. First it develops into fluid-filled pustules that may be painful. Once the lesions start to heal and scab over, the rash may become itchy.

Summary

The disease typically runs its course in 2 to 4 weeks. Most people with Mpox tend feel better on their own. The infected person will remain contagious until the rash has completely healed and new skin has formed after the scabs have fallen off.

There are two vaccines that are effective against Mpox and people may be offered one of these (typically Jynneos), if they are at higher potential for exposure to Mpox virus. Vaccination may also be given after exposure to the Mpox virus to help prevent Mpox disease.

TPOXX is also used under a CDC Investigational New Drug protocol to treat Mpox in people with severe disease, or who are more likely to get severely ill, such as people with weakened immune systems. There have been no human studies in people who have Mpox disease.