If You Are Sick or Exposed to Mpox

If You Have Been Exposed to Mpox

Mpox spreads through close, physical, skin-to-skin contact. Anyone can contract the virus. If you believe you have been exposed:

  • Get Vaccinated: Seek the mpox vaccine as soon as possible. Getting vaccinated within 4 days of exposure can help prevent infection, and getting it within 14 days can reduce symptom severity. Contact your healthcare provider, local health department, community health center, or pharmacy for availability.
  • Monitor Your Health: Watch for symptoms for 21 days from your last exposure.
  • Seek Care: If you develop a rash or flu-like symptoms (fever, chills, swollen lymph nodes), isolate immediately and contact a healthcare provider.

More information on what to do if you are exposed to mpox, from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

If You Are Sick: Testing & Treatment

  • Testing: If you develop a rash consistent with mpox, contact a healthcare provider. Only a healthcare provider can order an mpox test.
  • Recovery: Most people recover fully within 2 to 4 weeks without specialized medical treatment.
  • Antivirals: While there is no specific treatment approved for mpox, antiviral medications may be used to treat people with a weakened immune system, high risk for severe illness, and for those with severe symptoms (e.g., genital or rectal rashes). Discuss options with your doctor.

Managing Symptoms at Home

  • Rash Care: Keep rashes clean, dry, and out of the sun. Do not scratch, pop, or shave areas with sores to prevent spreading the virus or causing secondary infections.
  • Ease Discomfort: Soaking in warm oatmeal or Epsom salt baths can relieve itching. Use over-the-counter pain relievers (e.g., Motrin, Advil, Tylenol), and consult your provider about oral antihistamines and topical treatments (like calamine lotion, cortisone 10, petroleum jelly, lidocaine, and medicated mouthwashes) to help with itching and pain.
  • General Wellness: Stay hydrated, eat nutritious foods, and get plenty of rest. Contact your healthcare provider if pain is severe and or unmanageable at home.

Preventing the Spread

If you have mpox symptoms or a confirmed diagnosis, take these steps until your rash has fully healed, scabbed over, and a new layer of skin has formed:

  • Wash hands: often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, especially after direct contact with the rash.
  • Isolate: Stay home and avoid close contact with others, including pets or others in the same household.
  • Cover Up: If you must be around others, wear a well-fitting mask and cover all rashes and sores completely with clothing or bandages.
  • Do Not Share: Avoid sharing food, utensils, cups, bedding, towels, or clothing. Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces, objects, and fabrics.
  • Avoid Intimate Contact: Refrain from sexual or close physical contact with others.