Monkeypox (MPox)
Mpox
Mpox (previously known as monkeypox) is a rare infection most commonly found in West or Central Africa. Recently, some media attention has highlighted the Mpox virus (MPV).
There is a chance of symptom overlap with some very common STIs, including herpes and syphilis, dermatological presentations, and Mpox
Mpox does not spread easily between people. Spread of Mpox may occur when a person comes into close contact with:
- an animal (rodents are believed to be the primary animal reservoir for transmission to humans but Mpox is not found in UK rodents at present)
- human, or materials contaminated with the virus.
The virus enters the body through broken skin (even if not visible), the respiratory tract, or the mucous membranes (eyes, nose, or mouth).
Person-to-person spread may occur through:
- direct contact with Mpox skin lesions or scabs
- contact with clothing or linens (such as bedding or towels) used by an infected person
- or through respiratory transmission, such as coughing or sneezing of an individual with a Mpoxx rash.
Mpox Questions & Answers
What is the incubation period (the time period between exposure to an infection and the appearance of the first symptoms) of Mpox?
The incubation period is the duration/time between contact with the infected person and the time that the first symptoms appear. The incubation period for Mpox is between 5 and 21 days.
Is Mpox spread by sex?
Mpox has not previously been described as a sexually transmitted infection, though it can be passed on by direct contact during sex. It can also be passed on through other close contact with a person who has Mpox or contact with clothing or linens used by a person who has Mpox.
Is Mpox treatable?
Treatment for monkeypox is mainly supportive, but newer antivirals may be used. The illness is usually mild and most of those infected will recover within a few weeks without treatment. High-quality medical and nursing supportive care will be provided to individuals to manage symptoms.
Is there a vaccine available for Mpox and will you be offering it to people?
There isn’t a specific vaccine for monkeypox, but vaccinia (smallpox) vaccine does offer some protection. Some individuals with higher level of exposures are being offered this smallpox vaccine. We have pro-actively procured further doses of these vaccines.
Gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (MSM) questions
Why have you specified the sexuality of the cases?
The most recent cases are predominantly in gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men. They have no travel links to a country where Mpox is endemic, so it is possible they acquired the infection through community transmission. As the virus spreads through close contact, we are asking these groups to be alert to any unusual rashes or lesions on any part of their body and to contact a sexual health service if they have concerns.
What are you doing to inform people of the risks of this disease now it appears to be spreading more widely?
We are urging men in gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men. to be aware of any unusual rashes or lesions and contact a sexual health service without delay. We are urging that you contact Sexual Health Wirral by phone, please do not walk into the centre.
Do condoms prevent you from catching or passing on Mpox?
We always encourage the use of condoms to prevent STIs. Mpox is not a sexually transmitted infection by nature, though it can be passed on by direct contact during sex. Contagious lesions, through which infections are most likely to be passed on, can appear on any part of the body so condoms will not necessarily prevent transmission of the virus between two people who are in direct contact. The infectfion can also be passed on through contact with clothing or linens used by an infected person.
Please call Sexual Health Wirral on 0300 123 5474 so we can assess your symptoms over the telephone and organise for you to be seen in clinic.
Please do not walk into the clinic without calling first
Find out more about Monkeypox - NHS (www.nhs.uk)