Overview
- Mpox is a rash illness caused by a virus that is typically spread by close skin-to-skin contact with the rash of an infected person. Anyone can be infected by the mpox virus, however, since 2022, most cases in the United States have been among men who have sex with men, and transgender or nonbinary people and their sexual partners in geographic areas where mpox cases are occurring.
- People with mpox often get a rash that may be located on hands, feet, chest, face, mouth or in the genital area. The rash may look like pimples or blisters and may be painful or itchy. The rash may go through several stages, including scabs, before healing.
- People with mpox may also have a fever, chills, body aches, exhaustion, swollen lymph nodes, headache, or sore throat, runny nose, or cough.
- Most people with mpox recover completely within 2 to 4 weeks without medical treatment. Some people, especially those with a weakened immune system, may develop more severe illness and need hospitalization and treatment.
- A vaccine is recommended by CDC for people age 18 years or older who are at increased risk of close contact with someone infected with the mpox virus. Talk with your healthcare provider to see if you need this vaccine.
Mpox Vaccine Schedule
Jynneos (mpox vaccine) is administered as a two-dose series, 4 weeks apart. It is important to get both doses for the best protection against mpox. Jynneos is recommended for adults 18 years of age or older who have risk factors for mpox infection. Risk factors currently include being a man who has sex with men, or a transgender or nonbinary person who, in the last 6 months, has had one of the following (or who anticipates experiencing any of the following): a new diagnosis of a sexually transmitted disease, more than one sex partner, sex at a commercial sex venue, sex in association with a large public event in a region where mpox transmission is occurring. Sexual partners of people with these risks also should be vaccinated.
Partner Resources
Find information about signs and symptoms of mpox, mpox vaccine, and other ways to protect yourself from infection.
Read about the mpox vaccine and who should get it.
This page provides additional details about who is recommended to receive mpox vaccination. Use the mpox vaccine locator on this site to find out where mpox vaccine is available near you.