Understanding Mpox Transmission
Mpox is a viral infection that spreads primarily through close personal contact. The virus can be transmitted through direct contact with infected rash or sores, contaminated items like clothing or bedding, or through prolonged face-to-face contact, including intimate activities such as kissing or cuddling. It's important to note that only people with active symptoms can spread the virus to others.
Vaccination Guidelines
The JYNNEOS vaccine is FDA-approved for mpox prevention, requiring two doses administered 28 days apart. Full protection develops two weeks after the second dose.
Primary Vaccination Categories
Immediate vaccination is recommended for anyone who has had known or suspected exposure to someone with mpox, or who has had a sex partner diagnosed with mpox within the past two weeks.
Vaccination is also recommended for gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men, as well as transgender, nonbinary, and gender-diverse individuals who have experienced certain risk factors in the past 6 months. These risk factors include a new STD diagnosis or having multiple sex partners.
Additional consideration for vaccination should be given to individuals who have engaged in or plan to engage in higher-risk activities within the past 6 months. These activities include sexual contact at commercial venues, participation in large events in areas with active mpox transmission, or sex work. The same applies to those who have partners involved in these activities.
People with HIV or immune suppression who have risk factors should also seek vaccination, as should laboratory workers who handle orthopoxviruses.
Need more information about mpox?
Louisiana Department of Health
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Prevention and Monitoring
If you're concerned about potential exposure, it's essential to assess your risk and seek medical advice. Those without a regular healthcare provider can visit their local health unit for evaluation.
When symptoms develop, contact a healthcare provider immediately and avoid intimate contact until you've been evaluated. During this time, it's crucial to avoid gatherings that involve close personal contact.
Managing a Positive Diagnosis
If you test positive for mpox, isolation is necessary until complete healing occurs. This means staying isolated until your rash has fully healed, all scabs have fallen off, and new intact skin has formed underneath. During this period, avoid all close contact with others to prevent transmission.
Healthcare Access and Testing
Testing for mpox is widely available through both reference laboratories and state public facilities. If you don't have a healthcare provider or insurance, you can access testing through your local health unit or community clinic.
Preventive Measures
Everyone can take steps to prevent mpox transmission. Regular communication with sexual partners about health status is essential, particularly regarding any new or unexplained rashes or sores. Given the rising rates of syphilis, any new rashes should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.