What is mpox?

Mpox (previously called monkeypox) is a rare illness caused by infection with the mpox virus.  The virus is related to the smallpox virus but typically is less serious. Mpox spreads through close contact with someone who has it. It may also spread if you have contact with bedding, sheets, or clothing that touches the rash and has the virus on it. The virus enters the body through broken skin or your eyes, nose, or mouth.

Most people recover on their own in a few weeks. However, some may need to be admitted to hospital to get more care.

Mpox may look different in each person, but symptoms can include:

• Flu-like symptoms such as fever or chills, headache, muscle ache, joint pain, back pain, swollen lymph nodes , low energy.
• A rash or sores which can be on the hands, feet, mouth, and genitals. The rash can last for 2-4 weeks.

People with weak immune systems, children, or those who are pregnant may have a higher risk of getting very sick.

For updated information about mpox, how to treat or prevent it, and who can get the Mpox vaccine, see Mpox | Alberta Health Services, talk with your health care provider, call Health Link at 811, or visit Sexual and Reproductive Health.