Mpox is still spreading in the United States, and public health officials are urging people to understand how the virus is transmitted, what symptoms to look for, and how vaccination and treatment can reduce severe illness. The disease, caused by the monkeypox virus, remains a concern even as case counts have fallen from their peak during the 2022 global outbreak.
The virus spreads primarily through close, skin-to-skin contact with an infected person, including during intimate contact, as well as through contact with contaminated materials such as bedding or clothing. Symptoms typically include a rash that can appear on the genitals, hands, feet, chest, face or mouth, along with fever, swollen lymph nodes, headache, muscle aches and fatigue. The rash often goes through several stages before healing, and the illness can last two to four weeks.
Vaccination remains a central pillar of prevention. The JYNNEOS vaccine, approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for mpox and smallpox, is recommended for people at higher risk of exposure. Two doses are needed for maximum protection, and health authorities stress that receiving both doses is important for full immunity. The vaccine can also be given after exposure to help prevent illness or reduce its severity.
Treatment options are available for those who become infected. Tecovirimat, an antiviral medication, is sometimes used in severe cases or for people at high risk of complications, though its effectiveness is still being studied. Supportive care, including pain management and hydration, is often sufficient for mild cases. People with weakened immune systems, children, pregnant individuals and those with certain skin conditions may face a higher risk of severe disease.
Public health agencies continue to monitor case trends and encourage testing for anyone with symptoms or potential exposure. Testing involves swabbing the rash or lesions and can be arranged through healthcare providers or local health departments. Early diagnosis helps people get treatment sooner and take steps to avoid spreading the virus to others.
Despite the availability of vaccines and treatments, disparities in access and uptake persist. Officials note that outreach to affected communities, including men who have sex with men and their partners, remains critical. Misinformation about the virus and vaccines can also hinder prevention efforts, making clear communication from trusted sources essential.
The World Health Organization and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention continue to track mpox activity globally, including a more severe strain known as clade I that has caused outbreaks in parts of Central Africa. While clade I has not been widely detected in the United States, health authorities are monitoring its spread and preparing for potential cases.
For most people, the risk of mpox remains low, but those with multiple sexual partners or who have close contact with someone infected should be aware of the signs and seek medical advice. Prevention strategies include avoiding close contact with people who have symptoms, practicing good hand hygiene, and getting vaccinated if eligible.
As the virus continues to circulate, health experts emphasize that mpox is not a disease of the past. Staying informed about transmission, symptoms, vaccines and treatment is essential for protecting individual health and preventing further spread in communities across the country.