What is MPX?

MPX — pronounced /m·pox/ — is formerly known as Monkeypox. MPX can cause fever, headache, body aches, swollen lymph nodes, and a rash. The rash typically begins as flat spots that turn into bumps that fill with fluid. Some people develop spots that look like pimples or blisters before having any other symptoms. The bumps eventually crust and fall off as they heal.

What should I do if I have symptoms? Where can I get a vaccine?

Call our Community Health Hotline: (510) 252-6845

How it is Spread:

MPX is transmitted in different ways. The virus can be spread from person to person through direct contact with infectious rash, scabs, or bodily fluids as well as respiratory secretions during prolonged face-to-face contact or during intimate physical contact. Transmission is possible from the start of symptoms until the rash has fully healed and a fresh layer of skin has formed, typically within 2-4 weeks. People who are not infected cannot spread the virus.

MPX Signs and Symptoms

People with MPX get a rash that may be located on or near the genitals (penis, testicles, labia, and vagina) or anus and could be on other areas like the hands, feet, chest, face, or mouth.

  • The rash will go through several stages, including scabs, before healing.

  • The rash can initially look like pimples or blisters and may be painful or itchy.

Other symptoms of MPX can include:

  • Fever

  • Chills

  • Swollen lymph nodes

  • Exhaustion

  • Muscle aches and backache

  • Headache

  • Respiratory symptoms (e.g. sore throat, nasal congestion, or cough)

You may experience all or only a few symptoms

  • Sometimes, people have flu-like symptoms before the rash.

  • Some people get a rash first, followed by other symptoms.

  • Others only experience a rash.

How long do MPX symptoms last?

MPX symptoms usually start within 3 weeks of exposure to the virus. If someone has flu-like symptoms, they will usually develop a rash 1-4 days later.

MPX can be spread from when symptoms start until the rash has healed, all scabs have fallen off, and a fresh layer of skin has formed. The illness typically lasts 2-4 weeks.

Who in the community currently qualifies to receive the MPX vaccine?

MPX vaccine eligibility aligns with the national MPX vaccine strategy from the federal government. This approach prioritizes vaccinating the individuals at the highest risk right now, effectively preventing spread in communities. Due to a limited supply of the Jynneos vaccine from the federal government, the vaccine is currently being made available in the office by invitation or appointment only. Eligible groups include:

  • Men and trans people who have sex with men, who have had more than 1 sexual partner in the past 14 days

  • Sex workers or anyone who engages in transactional or survival sex

  • Individuals who had direct physical contact with someone confirmed to have MPX

  • Individuals notified by another health department or facility that they have had direct physical contact with someone who has tested positive for MPX

  • Attended an event or venue where a person contagious with MPX was at the event or venue and had direct physical contact with other people there

  • Individuals who had a sexually transmitted infection such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, or syphilis in the past month

You are also encouraged to speak with your doctor about vaccine eligibility.

MPX Resources