Here are key facts about Mpox (Monkeypox), according to the World Health Organization (WHO):
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| “Mpox can spread through sex from contact with infected person” – WHO |
- Mpox (monkeypox) is a viral illness caused by the monkeypox virus, a species of the genus Orthopoxvirus. Two different clades exist: clade I and clade II
- Common symptoms of mpox are a skin rash or mucosal lesions which can last 2–4 weeks accompanied by fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, low energy, and swollen lymph nodes.
- Mpox can be transmitted to humans through physical contact with someone who is infectious, with contaminated materials, or with infected animals.
- Laboratory confirmation of mpox is done by testing skin lesion material by PCR.
- Mpox is treated with supportive care. Vaccines and therapeutics developed for smallpox and approved for use in some countries can be used for mpox in some circumstances.
- In 2022–2023 a global outbreak of mpox was caused by a strain known as clade IIb.
- Mpox can be prevented by avoiding physical contact with someone who has mpox. Vaccination can help prevent infection for people at risk.
Mpox (monkeypox) is an infectious disease caused by the monkeypox virus. It can cause a painful rash, enlarged lymph nodes and fever. Most people fully recover, but some get very sick.
Anyone can get mpox. It spreads from contact with infected:
persons, through touch, kissing, or sex
animals, when hunting, skinning, or cooking them
materials, such as contaminated sheets, clothes or needles
pregnant persons, who may pass the virus on to their unborn baby.
If you have mpox:
Tell anyone you have been close to recently
Stay at home until all scabs fall off and a new layer of skin forms
Cover lesions and wear a well-fitting mask when around other people
Avoid physical contact.
who.int
