Overview

Mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) is a disease caused by a virus. The mpox virus is from the same family of viruses as smallpox. Mpox and smallpox have similar symptoms. But symptoms of mpox are milder, and it rarely causes death. Mpox isn't related to chickenpox.

Mpox spreads through close person-to-person contact, such as through cuddling, kissing, and having sex. It may be spread by touching items used by a person with mpox, such as blankets. During pregnancy, the virus can spread to the baby (fetus). It can also be spread from animals to people.

Mpox often causes a painful rash along with other symptoms. Symptoms last for about 2 to 4 weeks. Most people can treat their symptoms at home. If you're very sick or more likely to get very sick, or if the rash is in a very painful spot, you may need antiviral medicines. Some people are treated in the hospital.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• Get rest. And drink plenty of fluids.
• Cover the rash with clothing or bandages.
• Try not to scratch the rash.
• Take a warm bath or apply calamine lotion or a prescription cream to sooth any itching.
• Ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter medicine, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil), to help with pain.
• If your doctor gave you a prescription medicine for pain or to treat the virus, read and follow all instructions on the label. Call your doctor or nurse advice line if you have problems with your medicines.
• Avoid contact with other people until you no longer have symptoms. This means that the rash blisters have scabbed over, the scabs have fallen off, and a fresh layer of skin has formed where the scabs used to be.