MPOX INFORMATION HUB
Mpox is still around: know the signs and reduce risk without stigma
Mpox is a viral infection spread mainly through close contact. Recognising a rash and other symptoms helps people seek care promptly and protect those around them.
Mpox is a viral infection spread mainly through close contact. Recognising a rash and other symptoms helps people seek care promptly and protect those around them.
Love Foundation develops this work around accessibility, privacy, non-discrimination, and practical connections to support.
01
Symptoms to recognise
A rash can appear on the hands, feet, chest, face, mouth, genitals, or anus. It may initially resemble pimples or blisters, feel painful or itchy, and then scab before new skin forms.
Some people have fever, chills, swollen lymph nodes, tiredness, muscle pain, headache, or a sore throat. Others may have only a rash.
02
How mpox spreads
- Direct contact with a rash, scab, or infectious body fluid
- Hugging, kissing, massage, or sex involving close skin contact
- Sharing contaminated clothing, bedding, towels, or personal items
- Transmission during pregnancy or birth can occur
03
If you have a rash or possible exposure
Avoid close contact and sharing personal items. Cover lesions, wear a mask when meeting a provider, and explain the exposure history clearly.
Do not pick, scratch, or pop lesions. Seek clinical assessment, particularly for severe symptoms, pregnancy, a weakened immune system, or lesions affecting the eyes, mouth, genitals, or anus.
04
Reduce risk without stigma
- Talk with partners about new rashes or symptoms before close contact
- Avoid touching lesions or sharing personal items
- Wash hands and clean potentially contaminated objects and surfaces
- Ask a healthcare professional about vaccination under current local guidance