Mpox
Mpox, previously called monkeypox, is a rare infection caused by a virus. Although it causes a rash and can be spread through close personal contact, it’s not an STI.
Mpox is very rare in the UK. Since 2022, a small number of cases have been found here. A vaccination is now available.
How do you get mpox?
Mpox does not easily spread from person to person. But it can be passed on through close contact with a person who has the infection. This means:
touching them, in particular, touching their rash
touching their clothes, bedding or towels
being near their coughs and sneezes
If you are worried that you might have been in contact with the mpox virus, contact your doctors or your local sexual health clinic.
Symptoms of mpox
The symptoms include:
a high temperature
swollen lymph nodes - new lumps that appear on your neck, groin or under your arms
a spotty rash that’s similar to a chickenpox rash
If you have any symptoms of mpox, you should talk to your GP or local sexual health clinic. The at-home STI tests we provide do not test for mpox.
How to avoid mpox
You can reduce the chance of catching or passing on mpox by:
getting the vaccination if you’re eligible
talking to sexual partners about their sexual health and any symptoms
taking a break from sex and sexual contact if you have symptoms
washing your hands regularly with soap and water or using hand sanitiser
The mpox vaccine
The vaccine gives good protection against the mpox virus. Vaccination is available on the NHS for people who have a higher chance of contact with mpox. This includes:
men who have sex with other men and have multiple partners, participate in group sex or attend sex-on-premises venues. Staff at these venues may also be eligible
people who’ve had contact with someone who has mpox
Is mpox serious?
Most people who get mpox get better without experiencing any serious illness or complications. Left untreated, mpox can be painful.
Complications are rare but can include:
Bacterial infection from the skin lesions
Mpox affecting the brain (encephalitis), heart (myocarditis) or lungs (pneumonia)
Eye problems including loss of vision
Treatment for mpox
In most cases, mpox is mild and will go away in a few weeks without treatment. If you have more severe symptoms, you might need to be treated in hospital.
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