MPOX (FORMERLY MONKEYPOX)
Vaccine-Preventable Series: Mpox, explained—what it does, how it spreads, and how we prevent it
WHAT DOES THIS DISEASE DO
A viral disease that causes fever, swollen lymph nodes, and a painful rash that can lead to complications and, in rare cases, death.
BY THE NUMBER: THEN VS NOW (USA) -MPOX
Before the 2022 outbreak (2003 — historically rare in the U.S.)
Cases: 47 confirmed cases during the 2003 U.S. outbreak, which was linked to infected animals imported from Africa.
Hospitalizations: About 26% of patients were hospitalized during the 2003 outbreak.
Deaths: 0 deaths were reported in the United States during the 2003 outbreak.
After the 2022 outbreak and vaccination response
Cases: 30,395 cases reported in the United States by May 10, 2023.
Hospitalizations: About 8–10% of reported cases required hospitalization during the outbreak.
Deaths: 42 mpox-associated deaths reported in the United States during the outbreak period.
Since the 2022 Mpox outbreak in the United States, more than 30,000 cases have been reported, prompting widespread vaccination, testing, and public health responses. These efforts have helped significantly reduce transmission and severe illness. However, cases and outbreaks can still occur, particularly among people with close contact exposure and those at higher risk of infection.
THE VACCINE
Who gets it:
People at higher risk of exposure to Mpox
Individuals with known or suspected exposure
Certain healthcare and laboratory workers
Doses:
2 doses of the JYNNEOS vaccine, given 4 weeks apart.
WHO’S AT RISK
People who have close contact with an infected person
Individuals with multiple or new intimate partners during outbreaks
Healthcare workers caring for infected patients
People with weakened immune systems
HOW IT SPREADS
Close physical contact with an infected person’s rash, body fluids, respiratory secretions, or contaminated materials such as bedding or clothing.
WHAT IT LOOKS LIKE
Signs & Symptoms:
Fever
Headache
Muscle aches
Swollen lymph nodes
Fatigue
Rash that develops into fluid-filled blisters and scabs
COMPLICATIONS
Secondary skin infections
Pneumonia
Eye infections that can affect vision
Severe disease in immunocompromised individuals
Death (rare)
