Mpox (monkeypox) Information

Mpox

Mpox is usually spread through close physical contact. Most people with mpox recover in 2-4 weeks, but the disease can be serious. It can be especially serious for immunocompromised people, children, pregnant people, and people living with HIV whose disease is not fully treated (virally suppressed).

Anyone can get and spread mpox

Mpox is not limited to one community or another.  A majority, but not all, of the cases currently in the U.S. have been among men who have sex with men. There is nothing specific about men who have sex with men that puts someone at higher risk for getting mpox. This happens to be the first socially-connected group that has been affected with this particular outbreak.

How it spreads

The mpox virus doesn't spread easily. It is most often spread by skin-to-skin contact with the rash/sores of an infected person. This can happen during sex or other close contact.

It can also spread through: 

• respiratory droplets, during extended face-to-face contact (more than 3 hours)
• contact with bodily fluids
• contact with fluid from the pox
• contact with contaminated bedding or clothing

If you think you have been exposed to mpox (oregon.gov)

Vaccine

JYNNEOS is an FDA-approved vaccine against mpox for those 18 years and older. Because supply is limited, vaccines are currently being offered to those with a known exposure to mpox and those who are most likely to be exposed.

Deschutes County has some vaccine available.  If you have been exposed to someone with a possible or confirmed mpox in the last 14 days or if you have concerns of exposure please call 541-322-7155.

Preventing mpox

Mpox usually spreads from person to person through close, often skin-to-skin contact, including direct contact with a rash, sores, or scabs from a person infected with the virus. To prevent the spread of the virus:

• Avoid skin-to-skin contact such as through sex or other intimate contact if you or your partner have new skin lesions, fever, swollen lymph nodes or otherwise suspect you may have been exposed to the virus. Condoms do not prevent the spread of the virus (but do prevent spread of other infections).
• Wear gloves when handling materials such as bedding that have been used by someone with the virus.
• Wash hands thoroughly if you have contact with someone with mpox.
• If you get symptoms, stay home until you can connect with a healthcare provider.

 Advice for social gatherings like raves, parties, clubs and festivals (cdc.gov)

Testing and treatment

Ask a health care provider about testing if you develop a new rash, bumps, or sores, especially if: 

• You know you have been in close contact with anyone with a known or likely mpox infection.
• You have had close skin-to-skin contact with someone in a social network known to be experiencing the spread of mpox, such as men who have sex with men who meet partners through websites, apps or social events such as at clubs or parties.
• You have traveled in the last month to other areas in the world where cases have been found.

Most people recover on their own in 2-4 weeks without treatment. Your healthcare provider can help you manage your symptoms, and may recommend antiviral treatments depending on your health and the severity of symptoms.

If you have symptoms that concern you and you do not have a provider call Deschutes County’s Public Health Clinic at 541-322-7499.