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Read the information below about monkeypox, how it’s spread, the symptoms, and what to do if you get it.

What is monkeypox?

Monkeypox is a rare but potentially serious disease that is caused by the monkeypox virus (MPV). MPV is from the same family of viruses as the smallpox virus. MPV symptoms are similar to smallpox symptoms but milder, and MPV is rarely fatal.

How does it spread?

Monkeypox can spread to anyone through close, intimate contact, often skin-to-skin contact, including:

  • Direct contact with monkeypox rash, scabs, or body fluids from a person with monkeypox
  • Touching objects, fabrics (clothing, bedding, or towels), and surfaces that have been used by someone with monkeypox
  • Contact with respiratory secretions. Respiratory droplet exposure would need to be prolonged (ex: kissing or talking very closely for a long period of time)

What are the symptoms?

  • Fever
  • Headache
  • Muscle aches and backache
  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • Chills
  • Respiratory symptoms (e.g. sore throat, nasal congestion, or cough)
  • A rash that can look like pimples or blisters that appears on the face, inside the mouth, and on other parts of the body, such as the hands, feet, chest, genitals, or anus
  • The rash goes through different stages before healing completely. The illness typically lasts 2-4 weeks
  • Sometimes, people get a rash first, followed by other symptoms. Others only experience a rash

What precautions should one follow to prevent monkeypox?

  • Avoid close, skin-to-skin contact with people who have a rash that looks like monkeypox
  • Do not share bedding, towels, clothing, utensils, or cups with a person with monkeypox
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, especially before eating or touching your face and after you use the bathroom

What do I do if I have symptoms?

If you have a rash and suspect you have monkeypox, please notify the Health and Counseling Center at 262-551-5710 and contact the Kenosha Health Department at 262-605-6700 for treatment options.

Learn more on the CDC’s monkeypox website

Sponsoring Department, Office, or Organization:

Health and Counseling Center

For more information, contact:

262-551-5710