Monkeypox

What is it?

Monkeypox is a virus related to smallpox and can cause symptoms 1 to 2 weeks after exposure. Initially, flu-like symptoms occur including fever, fatigue, headaches, muscle aches, and swollen lymph nodes. Pimples or blisters can then appear on the face, inside the mouth, on the chest, hands, feet, genitals, or anus. These symptoms usually go away after 2 to 4 weeks. There is no treatment, but vaccination is available. About 5-10% of Monkeypox cases are hospitalized and deaths are rare.

 

How can I get Monkeypox?

Monkeypox requires close and extensive skin-to-skin contact. We are not currently seeing cases from casual contact.

 

Who should be vaccinated? 

Currently, there are very limited supplies of the new, safer JYNNEOS vaccine. Until more supplies are available, only those at high risk should be vaccinated. Those at high risk include anyone with confirmed exposure to Monkeypox and men who have sex with men with multiple partners. The vaccine is currently available at Convenient care locations including Concord, Belmont, and Littleton, and at Dartmouth Health.

 

How do I test? 

An appointment with Mid-State can be made to evaluate your symptoms and rash and a swab of a skin lesion can be sent to the lab for testing.