For up-to-date information on Mpox including U.S. maps and case counts, signs/symptoms, spread, prevention, treatment, and more, go to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Mpox is a viral infection that typically causes a mild illness with symptoms including fever, body aches, swelling of the lymph nodes, as well as a rash (sometimes called lesions) that look like chickenpox or syphilis. The rash can be painful and may start on the pubic area, genitals, or around the anus. More information including pictures can be found here.
Anyone can get and spread Mpox, regardless of gender, gender identity, or sexual orientation. People who are in close contact (skin-to-skin or face-to-face) with a person with Mpox can get infected.
The current outbreak is primarily spreading through sex and close, intimate contact among gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men; and gender non-conforming, non-binary, and transgender people. People in these groups are at highest risk of exposure.
The best way to help prevent the spread of Mpox virus is to:
Avoid close contact, including kissing, cuddling, massage, sex, and other skin-to-skin contact with people with symptoms like sores or rashes.
Limit sex or other intimate, skin-to-skin contact to include only people you know and trust.
Always talk with your sexual partner(s) about any recent illness. Be aware that symptoms of Mpox sometimes begin with a fever and respiratory illness.
Avoid touching objects and items that may have been in contact with rash/lesions or body secretions like saliva. This may include toothbrushes, utensils, sheets/bedding, towels, clothing.
Be aware of new or unexplained sores or rashes on your body or your partner’s body, including on the genitals and anus. If you develop a new rash, contact your health care provider for testing. While you wait for the test result, isolate at home. If you are unable to isolate, cover the lesions using bandages and avoid skin-to-skin contact with others to avoid spreading the virus.
People who have been exposed to Mpox should contact a healthcare provider to talk about exposure, testing, and vaccine. People can also contact the Montgomery County Office of Public Health (MCOPH) at 610-278-5117 or MCOPHMPX@montgomerycountypa.gov for assistance.
What do I do if I think I am infected with Mpox?
People who are having symptoms should contact a healthcare provider to get tested for Mpox. To learn more about nearby healthcare providers who offer testing, visit Montgomery County Mpox Testing Providers Map.
MCOPH is currently offering free Mpox vaccine by appointment only for people who meet one of the following criteria:
People who are a close contact with someone who has Mpox
People who may be high risk or more likely to get Mpox
If you think you qualify for the Mpox vaccine please complete MCOPH’s online Mpox vaccine qualification form. The online form will help you find out if you qualify for the Mpox vaccine. For people who complete the online form and qualify for Mpox vaccine, an MCOPH staff member will contact you to make a vaccine appointment.
Can Mpox be treated?
Tecovirimat (TPOXX) is an antiviral drug that is currently under Expanded Access to Investigational Drug Application through the CDC for the treatment of Mpox. TPOXX should be considered for people infected with Mpox who have a weakened immune system or are at high risk for severe disease. People seeking treatment should contact their healthcare provider.
Healthcare providers should contact MCOPH at 610-278-5117 to request TPOXX.