Last Updated 12/04/2022 We have updated our webpage with the preferred term “mpox” to refer to monkeypox, which aligns with the World Health Organization’s decision to recommend a new name to reduce stigma associated with the disease.
Mpox is a disease that is caused by the mpox virus. It is from the same family of viruses that cause smallpox, however, the symptoms of mpox are milder and rarely fatal.
It is spread from one person to another through:
Skin to skin contact with another person who has a mpox rash, sores or scabs
Respiratory droplets or oral fluids during intimate sexual contact (such as kissing, or sex) with someone with mpox
Touching fabrics, objects, or surfaces that have been used by someone with mpox
Common symptoms include fever, headache, swollen lymph nodes, body aches and fatigue.
1-3 days after the fever, the rash develops (i.e. Involves face, genital/rectal area, mouth, and palms/soles Starts as red bumps, which become fluid filled, and scab over )
Symptoms can develop up to 21 days after exposure
The rash from mpox usually starts as raised bumps, that become fluid filled and then scab over.
There are currently no specific treatments for mpox.
Individuals diagnosed with mpox infection should isolate and avoid intimate contact until all of their skin lesions have healed. See CDC guidelines for details regarding isolation after diagnosis with mpox.
Avoid close, skin-to-skin contact with an individual who has a rash that looks like mpox
Do not handle bedding, towels or clothes of someone who has been diagnosed with mpox
Wash your hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based sanitizer
If you have developed a rash, feel ill, or think you may have been exposed to mpox, please make an appointment with a healthcare provider. UNCG students can make an appointment at Student Health Services by calling 336-334-5340.
Testing is widely available.
Until you have been seen by a healthcare provider, keep the rash covered and wear a well-fitting mask when around others.
Vaccine is currently available in a limited supply for:
Anyone who had close contact in the past two weeks with someone who has been diagnosed with mpox
Men who have sex with men or transgender individuals who are sexually active
People who have had sexual contact with men who have sex with men or transgender individuals in the past 90 days
People living with HIV, or taking medications to prevent HIV (PrEP)
People who have been diagnosed with syphilis in the past 90 days
People who have had any of the following in the past 6 months:
Sex at a commercial sex venue
Sex in association with a large public event
Sexual partners of people with the above risks, or
People who anticipate experiencing the above risks
Please contact the Guilford County Department of Public Health at 336-641-3245 to request vaccination. This vaccine is not available at Student Health Services.
