Mpox

Mpox is a viral infection transmitted by an infected person during prolonged face-to-face contact, or during intimate physical contact, such as kissing, cuddling, or sex. It can also be transmitted through contact with contaminated items such as clothing and bedding.

Anyone can get mpox, but men who have sex with men remain at the highest risk.

Transmission

Mpox is primarily transmitted through direct contact with an active rash, indirect contact with an active rash through contaminated items such as clothing, or prolonged face-to face contact.

Treatment

There are no treatments specifically for mpox. Treatments approved for smallpox may be used due to the similarity of mpox and smallpox.

Prevention

Immunization for mpox is recommended within 14 days of exposure to a person infected person, but the vaccine is most effective if given within four days.

Additionally, vaccination is also recommended for people with certain job-related risks, such as public health laboratory staff. All men who engage in sex with men should consider immunization.

Immunizations are being offered to individuals who are likely to have been recently exposed to mpox or who have these risk factors:

• Known contacts of confirmed or suspected monkeypox cases
• Laboratory or health care personnel who perform diagnostic testing for mpox
• Men who self-identify as gay or bisexual, or who have sex with men

Persons meeting these criteria can receive no-cost mpox vaccines by contacting the Florida Department of Health in Alachua County (DOH-Alachua) during regular business hours at 352-334-8842 or after hours at 352-334-7900.

Resources

• Florida Department of Health - Mpox
• Florida CHARTS Reports