Mpox (previously known as Monkeypox)

What is mpox (previously known as Monkeypox) and what are the symptoms?

Mpox is a rare viral illness that is usually mild. It is closely related to smallpox, which was declared eradicated world wide in 1980.
There are two types of mpox: clade I and clade II.
Animals, such as rodents and non-human primates, can be infected; it can be transmitted from animals to humans or from humans to humans. Transmission from human to human is more common.
In the spring of 2022, confirmed mpox virus (MPXV) cases were reported in over 20 countries including Europe, the United Kingdom, Canada and the United States, with no direct travel links to mpox endemic areas in Central and West Africa.
Initial symptoms may appear 7-10 days (but can range from 3-21 days) after being exposed to the mpox virus. Most often, someone infected with mpox will develop a rash that typically begins as painful or itchy sore(s). Some people may have one or few sores, while others may have many. These can appear anywhere on the body, including the face, mouth, arms, legs hands, feet, anus, rectum, or genitals. Other symptoms that may first appear, or accompany the rash/sores include fever, chills, headache, swollen lymph nodes, muscle and joint aches or pains, and fatigue. In some cases, the rash is the first symptom.
Most people recover from mpox on their own after two to four weeks; however, severe illness can occur, more commonly among children under the age of 12 and individuals who are pregnant or immunocompromised.

Mpox can spread from person-to-person through close or intimate contact. This includes direct skin-to-skin contact with mpox rash, scabs, or sores and/or contact saliva, upper respiratory secretions (mucus), and bodily fluids and sores around the genitals, anus or rectum, from a person who has mpox.
In addition, mpox can spread from someone who is pregnant to the fetus, or to the newborn during or after birth.
Mpox can also spread by touching materials and objects such as clothing, bedding, towels, sex toys that may be contaminated and are not disinfected after use by someone with mpox.
Mpox can be spread from person to person, as soon as symptoms begin and until the rash has fully healed and new skin has formed. In some, mpox can spread 1 to 4 days before symptoms appear.

Contact Hastings Prince Edward Public Health Infectious and Communicable Diseases Program at 613-966-5500, ext. 349 for guidance.
Monitor for signs and symptoms of mpox for 21 days after exposure to a person with suspected or confirmed mpox.
Consider wearing a mask (medical mask preferred) when you are in indoors with other people.
Avoid non-essential interactions with people at higher risk of severe mpox illness.

You must self-isolate immediately from the day your symptoms start. This means stay home.
If you live with other people, isolate in your own room and use a separate bathroom if possible.
Do not have visitors to your home unless it is an essential visit.
You should remain in isolation and avoid contact with unaffected individuals until the rash has healed, the scabs have fallen off and a fresh layer of skin has formed, OR your test results show that you do not have mpox.
Cover lesions / scabs with bandages/dressings or clothing (e.g. long sleeves or pants).
If you need to be around others, a surgical mask should be worn in addition to covering all lesions.
Do not leave your home unless you are seeking medical care. Tell your healthcare provider of your mpox status before your appointment. If possible, avoid public transportation. If not possible, cover all lesions and wear a medical mask. Keep windows open if you are travelling in a vehicle.
Wash hands often with soap and water, especially after changing bandages and dressings.
Avoid sharing household items including dishes, glasses, cups, eating utensils, towels and bedding.
Items should be washed with soap or detergent in warm water after use. No special soap is needed.
Dishwashers and washing machines can be used.

Mpox can be spread from humans to animals. Avoid all contact with household pets if possible, as well as any contact with wild animals or livestock.
Keep your pets in the home. If possible, ask someone in the home who is not sick and has not been exposed, to care for the pet. If this isn’t possible, cover all lesions, wear a well-fitted mask and gloves when providing any care.
Avoid close or prolonged contact with pets, for example, avoid touching, snuggling, and kissing animals, especially if you have unhealed sores on the face, hands, or arms.
Wash hands with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand rub immediately before and after touching pets, their food or supplies.
Frequently clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces and objects.

Imvamune® is a smallpox vaccine that is effective against mpox. If recommended by a health care provider or Public Health, it may be given to individuals who have been exposed to a confirmed case or to individuals who are at high risk of contracting mpox.
Review the Mpox Vaccine Information Sheet and the HPEPH Imvamune Vaccine Fact Sheet

If you are at high risk of exposure to mpox, get vaccinated with Imvamune®. Receiving both doses, provides the best protection.
Avoid close, skin-to-skin contact with people who have symptoms of mpox.
Wash your hands often, to prevent getting sick.
Use barrier protection during sexual activity and get tested for sexually transmitted and bloodborne infections regularly if you have multiple or new sexual partners.