Mpox
Mpox is a viral illness that often causes a painful rash and swollen lymph nodes. Most people recover, but severe illness can occur, particularly in young children, pregnant people and people with weakened immune systems. The rash may involve only a few sores or many areas of the body, including the genitals or mouth.
Prevention: Mixed
Symptoms
- Painful or itchy sores that may blister and crust
- Fever, headache and muscle or back pain
- Swollen lymph nodes and tiredness
- Sometimes pain when swallowing, passing urine or having a bowel movement
Transmission
- Close skin-to-skin or intimate contact with an infected person
- Close face-to-face contact or contaminated bedding, clothes and objects
- Contact with infected animals; transmission to a baby during pregnancy or birth
Prevention
Avoid contact with another person’s sores and contaminated items. If mpox is suspected, seek advice and reduce close contact until assessed. Vaccination may be offered to people at risk or after exposure, depending on local guidance.
Diagnosis and care
Care focuses on pain relief, hydration and preventing complications. Follow advice on isolation until sores have healed and new skin has formed.
Source
- About Monkeypox
Based on CDC information
Source language: English
Source reviewed: January 30, 2026
Source accessed: May 17, 2026
- WHO: Mpox
Based on WHO information
Source language: English
Source accessed: October 8, 2026
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