Housatonic Valley Health District
Mpox
Updates
On November 28, 2022, the World Health Organization began using a new preferred term “mpox” as a synonym for monkeypox. Both names will be used simultaneously for one year while “monkeypox” is phased out.
On July 5, 2022, the Connecticut Department of Public Health has announced the first case of monkeypox (mpox) in a Connecticut resident. Click here to learn more.
The current mpox situation is rapidly evolving and the information below will be updated as new information emerges. HVHD is working with the State Department of Public Health (CTDPH) on monitoring mpox transmission in the U.S. and Connecticut to ensure rapid identification of cases. The risk of mpox to the public is currently very low based on the information available.
Click here for a Guide to Mpox (Updated 8/17/2022)
Overview
Mpox is a rare disease that is caused by infection with mpox virus. Mpox virus belongs to the Orthopoxvirus genus in the family Poxviridae. The Orthopoxvirus genus also includes variola virus (which causes smallpox), vaccinia virus (used in the smallpox vaccine), and cowpox virus (CDC, 2022).
Symptoms of mpox can include:
- Fever
- Headache
- Muscle aches and backache
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Chills
- Exhaustion
- A rash that can look like pimples or blisters that appears on the face, inside the mouth, and on other parts of the body, like the hands, feet, chest, genitals, or anus.
The virus can spread from person-to-person through:
- direct contact with the infectious rash, scabs, or body fluids
- respiratory secretions during prolonged, face-to-face contact, or during intimate physical contact, such as kissing, cuddling, or sex
- touching items (such as clothing or linens) that previously touched the infectious rash or body fluids
- pregnant people can spread the virus to their fetus through the placenta
Incubation Period: 6 to 13 days but can range from 5 to 21 days.
FAQ
Q: What is Mpox?
A: Mpox is a rare disease caused by infection with the mpox virus. It is important to note that Mpox is not relate to chickenpox. Over 99% of people who get the West African strain are likely to survive.
Q:What are the symptoms of mpox?
A: Fever, headache, muscle aches and backache, swollen lymph nodes, chills, exhaustion, a rash that may look like pimples or blisters on the face, inside the mouth, and on other parts of the body (i.e. hands, feet, chest, genitals, etc).
Q: How does Mpox spread?
A: This virus spreads in different ways, including person-to-person through direct contact with the infectious rash, scabs, or body fluids. Additionally, it can spread during intimate physical context (i.e. kissing, cuddling, or sex) and through the placenta of pregnant people.
Q: What should I do if I suspect I have Mpox?
A: Anyone who has a rash that looks like mpox should schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider. Click here for images of mpox rash images.
Q: Are there treatment options for Mpox?
A: There are no specific treatments for mpox virus infections, however, antiviral drugs and vaccines developed to protect against smallpox may be used to treat mpox.
Q: Do I need to get vaccinated against Mpox?
A: The CDC does not recommend widespread vaccination against mpox at this time.
Click here to learn more about Mpox
Resources
- CDC Mpox Information
- WHO Mpox Information
- Mpox: Get the Facts
- Social Gatherings, Safer Sex, and Mpox
- Reducing Stigma in Communication & Community Engagement
- Mpox FAQ (updated 7/15/22)
- Guide to Mpox (updated 12/5/22)
Updated: September 19, 2023