Mpox (monkeypox) is an infectious disease caused by the monkeypox virus. It can cause a painful rash, enlarged lymph nodes and fever. Most people fully recover, but some get very sick.

Mpox can resemble chickenpox and rashes associated with sexually transmitted infections such as herpes, HIV, and syphilis.

Infection and transmission

1. Animal to human contact: 

Mpox can be transmitted from animals to humans through direct contact with infected animals, bites, or exposure to contaminated animal products. Animals commonly associated with Mpox include rodents, squirrels, and monkeys. Handling or consuming undercooked meat from infected animals can also be a source of transmission.

2. Human to human contact:

Mpox can spread between humans through several pathways:

• Skin Contact: The virus can enter the body through broken skin, eyes, nose, or mouth, even if these areas don’t have visible wounds
• Direct Contact: Touching infectious skin, lesions in the mouth or genitalia, or coming into contact with respiratory droplets from an infected person can lead to transmission.
• Maternal Transmission: The virus can be transmitted from mother to fetus during pregnancy (in utero transmission).
• Contaminated Materials: Sharing materials contaminated with body fluids, such as bedding, clothing, or personal items, or using shared sharp objects like needles or tattoo equipment, can also facilitate the spread of the virus.

Signs and symptoms

Mpox causes signs and symptoms which usually begin within a week but can start 1–21 days after exposure. Symptoms typically last 2–4 weeks but may last longer in someone with a weakened immune system.

Common symptoms of mpox are:

• rash
• fever
• sore throat
• headache
• muscle aches
• back pain
• low energy
• swollen lymph nodes. 

For some people, the first symptom of mpox is a rash, while others may have different symptoms first. The rash begins as a flat sore which develops into a blister filled with liquid and may be itchy or painful. As the rash heals, the lesions dry up, crust over and fall off. 

Some people may have one or a few skin lesions and others have hundreds or more. These can appear  anywhere on the body such as the: palms of hands and soles of feet, face, mouth and throat and genital areas.

What to do in case of symptoms?

If you experience symptoms, immediately contact us at Strathmore University Medical Centre via our landlines at 0703 034 001, 0703 034 006, or 0703 034 000, or send a text to 0701 668 193 for prompt advice and support. 

While awaiting further instructions, minimize close interactions with others, particularly those who may be infected. Ensure your environment is well-ventilated, wash your hands thoroughly for at least 20 seconds with soap and running water, use a hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol, and refrain from sharing sharp instruments.