Mpox: Symptoms, Spread, and Vaccination

Mpox in Grand Rapids, Michigan

Mpox (formerly called monkeypox) is an illness caused by a virus related to smallpox. Most people recover on their own in 2 to 4 weeks, but the rash can be painful, and the illness can be serious for people with weakened immune systems. Mpox spreads mainly through close, personal contact — and a safe, effective vaccine is available for people at higher risk. Here’s what Grand Rapids residents should know.

Symptoms

Mpox often causes a rash that can look like pimples or blisters and may appear on the hands, feet, chest, face, mouth, or near the genitals or anus. The rash goes through stages and then scabs over and heals.

Other symptoms can include:

• Fever and chills
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Headache, muscle aches, and back pain
• Fatigue
• Sore throat, congestion, or cough

For some people the rash comes first; for others, flu-like symptoms come first. Symptoms usually start 3 to 17 days after exposure.

How it spreads

Mpox spreads mostly through direct skin-to-skin contact with the rash, scabs, or body fluids of someone who has mpox — including during intimate or sexual contact. It can also spread through contact with contaminated objects (like bedding or towels) and, less commonly, through prolonged close face-to-face contact. A person can spread mpox from the time symptoms start until the rash has fully healed and new skin has formed.

Prevent it

• Avoid close, skin-to-skin contact with anyone who has a new or unexplained rash.
• Don’t share bedding, towels, or clothing with someone who is sick.
• Wash your hands often.
• Get vaccinated if you’re at higher risk. The JYNNEOS vaccine (two doses, 28 days apart) is recommended for adults 18 and older who are at increased risk of mpox. Ask your doctor, the Kent County Health Department, or a local clinic whether vaccination is right for you.

If you have symptoms

• Contact your doctor or a clinic about testing, and let them know in advance so they can prepare.
• Stay home and avoid close contact with others — including pets — until your provider says you’re no longer contagious.
• Cover the rash, wash hands often, and don’t share personal items.
• Most people can recover at home with care for symptoms; ask your provider about treatment if you’re at higher risk for severe illness.

The Kent County Health Department can answer questions about testing and vaccination.