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MPOX

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MPOX* (formerly known as monkeypox)

MPOX* (formerly known as monkeypox) is still circulating and it is usually spread by very close contact with someone who has the virus. Second doses of the vaccine are available for anyone who has already received their first dose. Anyone can get MPOX, but at this time, MPOX has mostly spread between people who had close intimate/sexual contact with a person who has the virus.

*MPOX virus is also known as MPXV which is the virus that causes MPOX.

How MPOX Spreads

MPOX typically spreads from a person with the virus to others through:

  • Skin-to-skin contact with lesions, blisters, rashes.
  • Contact with objects, fabrics and surfaces used by someone who has the virus.
  • Recent evidence has shown that contact with respiratory droplets from breathing, talking, coughing or sneezing has not been linked to the spread of MPOX.

The virus enters the body through breaks in the skin or through the eyes and mouth.

Someone with MPOX can usually pass on the virus when they develop a skin rash or blisters, but it may also spread when they have early symptoms including fever and headache.

Symptoms usually start within six to 13 days after being exposed to MPOX, but can start anywhere from five to 21 days after exposure. Most people recover from MPOX on their own within two to four weeks.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Symptoms include:

  • Fever
  • Headache
  • Muscle aches
  • Backache
  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • Chills
  • Feeling extremely tired
  • Cough or sore throat (sometimes)
  • Runny nose
  • Rash with blisters that can appear one to three days after fever, but in some cases, can appear before fever or other symptoms. The rash usually begins as flat red spots (that can look like pimples or heat rash), which turn into blisters and then form a crust. In some cases, the rash appears in or around the mouth, throat, genital or anorectal (bum) areas.

MPOX is diagnosed by a healthcare provider, based on symptoms and a laboratory test.

More Information: Gay Men’s Sexual Health Alliance’s information about MPOX

To find out if you are eligible to receive free vaccine, visit: MPOX (Monkeypox)

Visit our Immunization Clinic page for information on how to book an appointment at any of our sites.