MPox

Mpox (previously known as monkeypox) is a rare infection most commonly found in parts of central and east Africa. The risk of catching it in the UK is low.

Mpox in the UK

There have been a small number of cases of Mpox in the UK since 2022. These have mainly been a type of Mpox that may be milder. Cases of the type of mpox that may be more serious are very rare in the UK. So far this type of Mpox has mainly been found in countries across central and east Africa.

How is Mpox passed on

Mpox can be passed on from person to person through:

• any close physical contact with Mpox blisters or scabs (including during sexual contact, kissing, cuddling or holding hands)
• touching clothing, bedding or towels used by someone with Mpox
• the coughs or sneezes of a person with Mpox when they’re close to you

In parts of central and east Africa, Mpox can also be caught from infected rodents (such as rats, mice and squirrels) if:

• you’re bitten
• you touch their fur, skin, blood, body fluids, spots, blisters or scabs
• you eat their meat and it has not been cooked thoroughly

Symptoms of Mpox

If you get infected with Mpox, it usually takes between 5 and 21 days for the first symptoms to appear. The first symptoms of Mpox include:

• a high temperature (fever)
• a headache
• muscle aches
• backache
• swollen glands
• shivering (chills)
• exhaustion
• joint pain

A rash usually appears 1 to 5 days after the first symptoms. It can be on any part of the body, including the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, mouth, genitals and anus. You may also have anal pain or bleeding from your bottom.

The rash is sometimes confused with chickenpox. It starts as raised spots, which turn into sores (ulcers) or small blisters filled with fluid. The blisters eventually form scabs which later fall off.

The symptoms usually clear up in a few weeks. While you have symptoms, you can pass Mpox on to other people.

MPox vaccinations now available

You may be eligible for the mpox vaccine if you are a man who has sex with men and have multiple partners, participate in group sex, or attend sex-on-premises venues. Staff at these venues may also be eligible.