Mpox Virus 411 for 09-22-2023

The monkeypox virus, now renamed mpox, is a viral zoonotic disease that is transmitted from animals to humans. The virus is endemic to Central and West Africa, but in 2022, there was a global outbreak of mpox that affected over 89,000 people in over 100 countries.
As of September 20, 2023, there have been 30,767 cases of mpox reported in the United States, with 50 deaths. The outbreak has slowed significantly since its peak in July 2022, but it is still important to be aware of the risks and take steps to protect yourself.
Mpox is spread through close contact with an infected person or animal, or contact with contaminated materials, such as bedding or clothing. The virus can enter the body through broken skin, the respiratory tract, or the mucous membranes of the eyes, nose, and mouth.
The symptoms of mpox typically appear within 7 to 14 days of exposure to the virus. The most common symptom is a rash that often starts on the face and spreads to other parts of the body. Other symptoms can include fever, headache, muscle aches, backache, swollen lymph nodes, and chills.
Most people with mpox recover within 2 to 4 weeks without treatment. However, the virus can be serious, especially for young children, people with weakened immune systems, and pregnant women.
There are two vaccines available to prevent mpox: JYNNEOS and ACAM2000. JYNNEOS is the preferred vaccine for most people, as it is safer and has fewer side effects than ACAM2000.
The CDC recommends that the following people get vaccinated against mpox:
People who have been exposed to the mpox virus
People who are at high risk of exposure to the mpox virus, such as:
People who have close contact with people who have mpox
People who have multiple sexual partners
People who travel to countries where mpox is common
If you think you may have mpox, it is important to contact your healthcare provider right away.