Mpox

ABOUT MPOX - FAQ’S

What is Mpox?

Mpox (previously known as monkey pox) is a highly infectious disease caused by infection with the mpox virus. It started out as mainly being transmitted from wild animals to humans who had close contact with them. However, since the most recent outbreak it is now most commonly spread between people. 

What is Mpox virus?

Mpox virus belongs to a group of viruses classified as Orthopoxvirus genus which typically cause pox-like diseases that present as a rash with raised bumps or blisters on the skin.   

Why is it called Mpox?

Mpox was first discovered in 1958 when 2 outbreaks of a pox-like disease occurred in the colonies of monkeys kept for research in a Danish Laboratory, hence the original name of monkey pox.

Is Mpox a new disease?

Mpox is not a new virus.  The first human case was identified in 1970. 

How is Mpox spread among people?

The virus can be spread from person to person through:

• Direct contact with the infectious rash, scabs or body fluids
• Infected respiratory secretions during prolonged, face to face contact, or during intimate physical contact, such as kissing, cuddling or sex
• Touching items (such as clothing/linens) that previously touched the infectious rash or body fluids
• Pregnancy: The virus can be spread to the fetus through the placenta

How can the spread of Mpox be prevented?

• Wash or sanitize your hands frequently
• Avoid contact with any person who has a rash
• Avoid contact with any object that has been in contact with a sick person
• Wear a mask if in close contact with an infected individual. 

Am I at risk of getting Mpox?

Evidence currently suggests the persons most at risk are those who have had close physical contact with someone with Mpox while they are symptomatic (experiencing and displaying symptoms).

Who are the persons most at risk?

Mpox virus is usually resolves by itself without any specific treatment). It can be severe in some individuals such as children, pregnant women, or persons with immune suppression, such as people living with uncontrolled HIV or who are on some form of chemotherapy. 

What are the symptoms of Mpox?

People with Mpox initially develop symptoms which include exhaustion, fever, headache, backache, muscle ache, chills and swollen lymph nodes. 

A rash (consisting of pox and vesicles) may also develop within 1 – 3 days of fever onset, firstly on the face, then on the hands feet and other parts of the body. 

Is Mpox just like Smallpox?

Mpox belongs to the same family of viruses as smallpox.  The mpox symptoms are similar to smallpox, but milder than the symptoms of smallpox. 

Are the symptoms the same as Smallpox?

Mpox begins with fever, headaches, muscle aches, and exhaustion.  The main difference between symptoms of smallpox and mpox is that mpox causes the lymph nodes to swell (lymphadenopathy) while smallpox does not. 

How long does Mpox infection last?

The time from infection to the onset of symptoms is typically from 6 – 12 days, but can be from 5 – 21 days.  Rashes develop within 1 – 3 days of fever.  

Generally, symptoms last between 2 – 4 weeks.

Information accessed from:

The World Health Organization. Mpox (who.int)

US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. About Mpox | Mpox | Poxvirus | CDC