Mpox (Monkeypox)

Mpox is a viral infection causing fever and a distinctive rash that progresses through several stages. It is generally milder than smallpox, to which it is related, but can occasionally cause serious complications, particularly in young children or people with weakened immunity.

• Fever, headache, and muscle aches
• Swollen lymph nodes, a feature that helps distinguish it from some other rash illnesses
• A rash that progresses from flat spots to raised bumps, then fluid- or pus-filled blisters, before crusting and healing
• Rash can appear on the face, hands, feet, and genital or anal area, and lesions are often at the same stage of development at any one time

• Caused by the mpox virus, spread through close contact with an infected person's skin lesions, body fluids, or contaminated materials, and through respiratory droplets during prolonged close contact.
• Can also spread from infected animals to humans in some regions through direct contact with an infected animal or its body fluids.

• Suspected clinically based on the characteristic rash together with fever and swollen lymph nodes, particularly with a relevant exposure history.
• Confirmed through laboratory testing of a swab from a skin lesion, where available.

Most cases are mild and managed with supportive care — rest, fluids, pain relief, and keeping the skin lesions clean and dry to prevent secondary bacterial infection.

Isolation from others is recommended until all lesions have crusted over and a new layer of skin has formed underneath, to reduce the risk of transmission.

Specific antiviral treatment may be considered for people at higher risk of severe disease, such as those with weakened immunity, where available.

Severe pain, extensive rash, difficulty eating or drinking, or lesions near the eyes should be assessed promptly, as these can indicate a need for closer medical care.

• Avoid close skin-to-skin or intimate contact with anyone who has a suspicious rash or confirmed mpox.
• Avoid contact with materials (such as bedding or towels) that have been in contact with an infected person's lesions.
• Vaccination may be recommended for people at higher risk of exposure, where available.
• Practise good hand hygiene and seek prompt medical assessment for any unexplained rash with fever.