Mpox (formerly Monkeypox) is a rare zoonotic disease originally transmitted to humans from animals and caused by the enveloped Monkeypox virus.

It is regarded as the most important orthopoxvirus infection in humans since the eradication of smallpox. Historically, vaccination against smallpox has been shown to be protective against monkeypox.

Who is at risk?

Mpox is usually self-limiting but may be severe in some individuals, such as children, pregnant women, or persons with weakened immune systems.

What are the symptoms?

The clinical presentation of mpox often begins with a combination of the following symptoms: fever, headache, chills, exhaustion, asthenia, swollen glands, back pain, and muscle aches.

Commonly, within one to three days after the onset of fever, the patient develops a rash that first appears on the face and then spreads to other parts of the body, including the hands and feet. The rash is sometimes confused with chickenpox.
 

How is it spread?

Mpox is transmitted to humans through contact with an infected animal, human or material contaminated with the virus. The virus enters the body through broken skin, the respiratory tract, or mucous membranes. The incubation period is typically 6 to 16 days but can range from 5 to 21 days.

Human-to-human mpox transmission occurs through direct skin-to-skin contact with mpox rash or scabs from a person with mpox, contact with saliva, upper respiratory secretions (snot, mucus), and bodily fluids or lesions around the anus, rectum, or vagina from a person with mpox.

Did you know? MPXV can spread to anyone through contact with objects, fabrics, and surfaces that have not been disinfected after use by someone with mpox. This includes items like clothing, bedding and towels.