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Mpox: What You Need to Know

Understanding Mpox: What You Need to Know

GS Baylor, August 16, 2024.

The MSU Office of Global Health, Safety, and Security, through its partnerships with the U.S. Department of State, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Ingham County Health Department, and our overseas programs medical provider International SOS, closely monitors mpox (previously known as monkeypox) in relation to our global work and academic programs. 

While mpox is a serious disease, the current likelihood of an MSU traveler contracting it is low. By staying informed and following simple preventive measures, our university community can continue to travel and participate in global activities with confidence.

Mpox Update 2024: The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) remains the epicenter of the mpox outbreak, with over 14,900 cases, mostly in children. The clade Ib variant poses a significant threat due to its higher mortality rates and spread to neighboring countries. Global efforts are ongoing, with the UN and WHO intensifying support to curb the outbreak and protect vulnerable populations.

What is Mpox?
Mpox is a rare viral disease related to smallpox, first identified in 1958. It affects both animals and humans, with an incubation period of 7−14 days and symptoms lasting 2−4 weeks. Early symptoms include fever, headache, muscle aches, and swollen lymph nodes, while later symptoms feature a rash and lesions, typically starting on the face and spreading.

 

How is Mpox transmitted?

  1. Direct Contact: The most common route of transmission is through direct contact with the rash, scabs, or body fluids of an infected person. The virus can also spread through contact with contaminated objects, such as clothing or bedding used by someone with monkeypox.
  2. Respiratory Droplets: Prolonged face-to-face contact can lead to transmission through respiratory droplets. However, this is less common and usually requires close, sustained interaction.
  3. Animal-to-Human Transmission: Handling or consuming undercooked meat from infected animals can also be a source of infection. In some regions, the virus is present in wildlife, such as rodents and primates.

 

How do we prevent transmission of Mpox?

Take these steps to prevent infection with or the spread of the mpox virus:

  • Avoid close contact with people who have a rash that looks like mpox.
  • Avoid handling clothes, sheets, blankets or other materials that have been in contact with an infected animal or person.
  • Isolate people who have mpox from healthy people.
  • Wash your hands well with soap and water after any contact with an infected person or animal. If soap and water aren't available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
  • Avoid animals that may carry the virus.

Some smallpox vaccines can prevent mpox, including the ACAM2000 and Jynneos vaccines. These vaccines can be used to prevent mpox because smallpox and mpox are caused by related viruses.

Healthcare professionals may suggest that people who have been exposed to mpox get vaccinated. Some people who are at risk of exposure to the virus in their work, such as lab workers, may get vaccinated too.

The CDC doesn't recommend that everyone get vaccinated against mpox at this time.

 

Further Questions?

 

  • MSU-sponsored travelers with concerns about monkeypox are advised to contact International SOS, MSU’s international medical and security assistance provider. They have medical specialists who can provide additional information, guidance and consultations as needed.