As of November 2022, following a series of consultations with global experts, WHO will begin using a new preferred term “mpox” as a synonym for monkeypox. Both names will be used simultaneously for one year while “monkeypox” is phased out.

What is mpox?

Mpox is a disease caused by infection with the mpox virus. While mpox can be very painful, it is rarely fatal. The World Health Organization and United States Department of Health and Human Services have declared mpox a public health emergency. Austin Public Health tracks cases of mpox in Travis County, with the dashboard updating weekly on Thursdays. Just as we have seen with other communicable diseases, we expect campus to mirror the community with the incidence of this virus.

How is mpox spread?

Mpox does not spread easily. It is most commonly transmitted through close, personal, often skin-to-skin contact with infected people or animals. It can also be spread through contact with objects, fabrics (clothing, bedding, or towels), and surfaces that have been used by someone with mpox. It can also be spread via respiratory secretions or oral fluids from a person with mpox during prolonged face-to-face contact or during intimate physical contact; however, it does not linger in the air and is not thought to be transmitted during short periods of shared air space.

A person with mpox can spread it to others from the time symptoms start until the rash has fully healed and a fresh layer of skin has formed. The illness typically lasts 2-4 weeks. Scientists are still researching if the virus can be spread when someone has no symptoms.

What are the symptoms of mpox?

A rash or sores, sometimes located on hands, feet, chest, face, around the genitals, or inside the body including mouth, vagina or anus. Other symptoms of mpox can include, fever, headache, muscle aches and backache, swollen lymph nodes, chills, and fatigue. Sometimes these symptoms occur before the onset of the characteristic rash or sores.

Who can get mpox?

Anyone can get mpox, regardless of age, gender identity or sexual orientation.

What precautions should one follow to prevent mpox?

• Avoid close, skin-to-skin contact with people who have a rash that looks like mpox.

• Do not share bedding, towels, clothing, utensils, or cups with a person with mpox.

• Wash your hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, especially before eating or touching your face and after you use the bathroom.

• Although mpox is not a sexually transmitted infection, it can be spread through sexual contact. The CDC offers additional tips on preventing mpox through safer sex and safer social gatherings.

• View additional tips for young adults.

What should I do if I think I have mpox?

If you think you have mpox, cover all parts of the rash with clothing, gloves, or bandages, and wear a mask until you can see a healthcare provider. Remember to:

• Avoid touching anyone until you have been to the doctor.

• If your test result is positive, follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations for isolation and care.

• Wash your hands often and try not to touch your eyes.

• If you wear contact lenses, wear glasses instead, if possible, to avoid infecting your eyes.

Is there a vaccine for mpox?

Yes. The CDC recommends vaccination for people who have been exposed to mpox and people who may be more likely to get mpox.

What role does stigma play in this outbreak?

Presumed origins and communities who experience early impact from a communicable disease can influence stigmatization. Among many concerns, stigma can:

• hamper help-seeking amongst stigmatized communities

• lead non-stigmatized communities to ignore preventative advice under the mistaken presumption that they are not vulnerable to the disease

• exacerbate discrimination

• deteriorate mental health

Eliminating stigma is the only way to ensure that patients receive the care they need.

Where can I learn more?

For more information about mpox, please visit the FAQ page provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Courtesy of University Health Services, The University of Texas at Austin.
Published by the University of Texas at Austin University Health Services.
This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information is intended to inform and educate and is not a replacement for medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.
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