Mpox (Monkeypox)
Mpox is a rare but potentially serious illness caused by a virus of the Orthopoxvirus genus (group). Although it belongs to the same virus family as chickenpox, mpox is not related to chickenpox.
The disease was first identified in 1958 when a pox-like illness was observed in monkeys, which is how it got its name. However, the exact source of the virus is still unknown. Certain animals, particularly rodents and non-human primates in Africa, are believed to carry the virus and can transmit it to humans. There are currently 2 types, or clades, of mpox circulating, I and II.
The first human case of mpox was reported in 1970. Since then, there have been multiple outbreaks in different countries, including the United States. Some outbreaks have affected specific communities, including individuals who identify as gay or bisexual, though anyone can contract mpox.
Transmission
- Close or intimate contact with an infected person
- Direct contact with infected animals
- Contact with contaminated materials (such as clothing, bedding, or surfaces)
A person with mpox is contagious from the onset of symptoms until all sores have healed completely.
Mpox does not spread through casual contact, such as interactions in classrooms, offices, public transportation, or swimming pools, and it is not typically transmitted through the air.
At this time, the overall risk of mpox for most people in the United States remains low.
Symptoms
The incubation period for mpox is usually 7–14 days but can range from 5–21 days.
Early symptoms may include:
- Fever
- Headache
- Muscle aches and back pain
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Chills
- Fatigue
Within 1 to 4 days after these initial symptoms, a rash typically develops. It often begins on the face and may spread to other parts of the body, including the genitals, anus, hands, feet, chest, and face.
In some cases, the rash may appear before other symptoms—or be the only symptom.
The rash may:
- Look like pimples or blisters
- Be painful or itchy
- Appear inside the body, including the mouth, anus, or vagina
A person is considered infectious from the time symptoms begin.
The illness usually lasts 2 to 4 weeks.
When to Seek Care
If you think you may have mpox, or have had close contact with someone who has it, contact a healthcare provider—especially if you develop a new or unexplained rash or other symptoms.
Preventing Mpox
According to CDC, clade I and clade II mpox can be prevented in the same ways. Prevention strategies include:
- Persons who have been exposed to mpox must have 2 doses of the vaccine.
- Persons that are in certain risk groups can get 2 doses of the mpox vaccine for best protection.
- Avoid direct or skin-to-skin contact with people who have a rash that looks like mpox.
- Don't use objects or materials a person with mpox has used.
- Avoid wild animals in areas where mpox is known to circulate in animals.
- Lower your risk of monkeypox during sex or at social gatherings; keep in mind that condoms alone may not prevent all exposures to monkeypox since the rash can affect other parts of the body.
- Wash your hands or clean them use alcohol-based hand sanitizer often: hand hygiene is the best ways to protect you, your family, and your friends from getting sick with monkeypox and other diseases.
Mpox Vaccination
Contact the following healthcare providers to schedule an mpox vaccination appointment.
VNA Health Care (needs to be a current client)
Open Door Health Center
Mpox Treatment
For most patients with mpox who don't have severe disease or risk factors for severe disease, supportive care and pain control will help them recover.
There is no specific treatment for mpox, but antiviral drugs used to treat smallpox can sometimes be used, as smallpox and mpox viruses are genetically similar. Tecovirimat (TPOXX) is an antiviral medication that is primarily recommended for treating persons who are at a higher risk of becoming severely ill with mpox. Your healthcare provider will assess the need to receive antiviral treatment.
Resources for the General Public
IDPH: Mpox
IDPH: Mpox Vaccine
IDPH: Mpox Patient Isolation Procedures
CDC: Mpox Current Situation
CDC: About Monkeypox
CDC: Home Cleaning and Disinfection
Resources for Schools and Daycares
IDPH: Human Mpox Virus Interim Guidance for Schools
IDPH: Human Mpox Virus Interim Guidance for Daycares/Early Childhood Centers
IDPH: Mpox Guidance for College and University Settings
Healthcare Providers
Clinicians should immediately report any suspect cases in residents of Kane County to the Kane County Health Department (during or after work hours) at 630-208-3801 and take appropriate infection control precautions.
Suspect or confirmed cases of mpox must be reported to the Health Department:
- Within 3 hours for any suspect or lab confirmed Mpox cases who are employees or residents in a congregate setting (such as homeless shelter, senior facility, correctional facility, university dorm) or day care or school settings, or other situation that might result in many other individuals being exposed.
- Within 24 hours for all other laboratory positive mpox cases through electronic reporting (either ELR or IDSS provider reporting).
Testing for mpox is now available through commercial laboratories.
If assistance with mpox testing is needed, or to request Tecovirimat (TPOXX), please contact KCHD at (630) 208-3801.
Resources for Healthcare Providers
IDPH: Mpox Suspect Case Checklist
IDPH: Mpox Resources for Providers
IDPH: Laboratory Test Requisition Form
CDC: Caring for Patients with Monkeypox
CDC: Clinical Considerations for Mpox in Children and Adolescents
CDC: Tips for Mpox Specimen Collection
CDC: Collecting and Handling Specimens for Monkeypox PCR Testing
CDC: Isolation and Infection Control at Home
CDC: Isolation and Infection Control in a Healthcare Facility
CDC: Mpox Infection Prevention and Control in Healthcare Settings
