Mpox (monkeypox)

Mpox can cause a rash that looks like bumps, sores, or blisters that may be on the genitals, anus, or other parts of the body like the hands, feet, chest, face or mouth. Most people infected with mpox develop a rash. The rash typically takes 2 to 4 weeks to heal completely. Some people experience a rash with other symptoms, while others only have a rash.

Other symptoms can include:

• Fever or chills
• Headache
• Body ache
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Fatigue

Vaccination is highly effective at preventing mpox infection and reducing severity of symptoms. Data on the JYNNEOS vaccine’s effectiveness at preventing mpox shows that the vaccine is 75.2% effective for 1 dose and 85.9% effective for 2 doses. Vaccinated individuals are most protected 2 weeks after their 2^nd dose.

Please call the clinic at 612-543-5555 for more information about getting the mpox vaccine.

Following MDH guidelines, we are prioritizing the following people for mpox vaccination, regardless of the number of sexual partners:

• People who have been exposed to mpox
• People living with HIV
• Men who have sex with men
• Transgender people
• And others who are at high risk

The mpox vaccine can be given in the forearm, shoulder, or upper back near the shoulder blade.

In addition to vaccination, mpox infection and transmission risk can be reduced by taking other measures. You can consider:

• Talking with partners about STI testing, symptoms, and sexual health history
• Avoiding close, prolonged contact with people who are experiencing symptoms of mpox, including a rash or lesions
• Limiting number of sexual partners
• Practicing good handwashing and using alcohol-based hand sanitizer

If you develop a rash (bumps, sores, or blisters) or are worried that you might have mpox or believe you have been exposed to it, we encourage you to contact your primary health care provider. If you don’t have a primary health care provider, you are welcome to call the Red Door Clinic at 612-543-5555.

We can only test for mpox if a rash is present. Testing involves a swab of the rash. If positive for mpox, we will help you anonymously notify potential contacts.

Avoid touching the rash; touching the rash can spread it to other parts of the body and may delay healing.

If you have mpox or are waiting for results, please follow CDC isolation and prevention practices.

Mpox is not a sexually transmitted disease. Mpox is mostly transmitted through skin-to-skin contact, which includes sex, but can also spread through hugging, kissing, cuddling, etc.

Scientists are still learning whether mpox can spread through semen and vaginal fluids.

Out of caution, Red Door recommends that people consider safe sex practices to reduce fluid exchange (condom use, withdrawal, non-penetrative sexual activities) for eight to 12 weeks after mpox skin lesions have completely healed over.

CDC suggestions for safer sex and social gatherings.

Mpox symptoms can be very uncomfortable for some people. Some home treatments you can try to help manage symptoms include:

• Salt baths (Epsom or Domeboro) to help sores heal faster
• Oatmeal baths, calamine lotion, and Benadryl for itching
• Advil or Tylenol, gargling saltwater, and topical steroids for pain management
• Stool softeners and sitz baths for anal pain and constipation