Mpox / "Monkeypox"

For some time now, there have been frequent reports of mpox infections (also known as MPX) in many European countries and North America. While the MPX virus is related to smallpox (variola), it is far less contagious and dangerous. Vaccination can protect against infection and severe illness.

Mpox (MPX) Essentials

• Transmission: The viral infection is currently spreading primarily within sexual networks of men who have sex with men.
• Course: Although the disease usually heals on its own, it can be extremely painful.
• Incubation period: Symptoms typically begin within 5 to 21 days after exposure.
• Symptoms: Skin lesions are characteristic and can cause severe pain—ranging from rashes or spots to bumps and blisters, pustules, sores, and scabs.
• Location: Skin changes often start on the face, as well as in the genital or anal region.
• Healing: The "pox" usually heal on their own after two to four weeks, but they can leave scars.
• Additional symptoms: These skin lesions are often preceded or accompanied by general symptoms such as fever, headaches, swollen lymph nodes, and muscle or back pain.

How It Spreads

• Direct contact: The primary mode of transmission is close and prolonged skin-to-skin contact, such as cuddling or sex—especially contact with skin lesions or scabs.
• Infectiousness: The fluid inside the blisters and from the wounds that form after the blisters burst is particularly contagious, as is the scab that forms over them.
• Objects: The virus can also be transmitted through objects used during sex (e.g., sex toys) and through contact with contaminated textiles (e.g., clothing, bedding, towels).

Treatment and Care

• Pain management: Particularly painful cases may require hospital treatment for pain management. It is also important to prevent secondary infections of the wounds.
• Medication: Therapy with tecovirimat has been approved since January 2022 for individuals with severe cases.

Further information is available at www.aidshilfe.de/en/mpox-monkeypox.