Monkeypox is a disease caused by the monkeypox virus. Historically, monkeypox caused sporadic localized outbreaks, but it is currently circulating throughout the world. The most common symptom of this infection is a rash that can be very severe. Most people in the current outbreak have not needed medical treatment, however, severe infection is possible. The infection is mostly spread by direct skin-to-skin contact. This outbreak is currently limited to certain populations with close contact. Most people are not at risk of infection.

For more information please visit Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) https://www.cdc.gov/poxvirus/monkeypox/index.html

Utah Department of Health & Human Services https://epi.health.utah.gov/monkeypox/

CDC Fact Sheet: Monkeypox Facts for People Who are Sexually Active

Monkeypox symptoms – https://www.cdc.gov/poxvirus/monkeypox/symptoms.html

People with monkeypox get a rash that may be located on or near the genitals (penis, testicles, labia, and vagina) or anus (butthole) and could be on other areas like the hands, feet, chest, face, or mouth.

  • The rash will go through several stages, including scabs, before healing.
  • The rash can initially look like pimples or blisters and may be painful or itchy.

Other symptoms of monkeypox can include:

  • Fever
  • Chills
  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • Exhaustion
  • Muscle aches and backache
  • Headache
  • Respiratory symptoms (e.g. sore throat, nasal congestion, or cough)

You may experience all or only a few symptoms

  • Sometimes, people have flu-like symptoms before the rash.
  • Some people get a rash first, followed by other symptoms.
  • Others only experience a rash.

How long do monkeypox symptoms last?

Monkeypox symptoms usually start within 3 weeks of exposure to the virus. If someone has flu-like symptoms, they will usually develop a rash 1-4 days later.

Monkeypox can be spread from the time symptoms start until the rash has healed, all scabs have fallen off, and a fresh layer of skin has formed. The illness typically lasts 2-4 weeks.

If You Have a New or Unexplained Rash or Other Symptoms…
  • Avoid close contact, including sex or being intimate with anyone, until you have been checked out by a healthcare provider.
  • If you don’t have a provider or health insurance, visit a public health clinic near you.
  • When you see a healthcare provider, wear a mask, and remind them that this virus is circulating in the area.