Learn the basics about the Mpox (formerly monkeypox) virus.
- Mpox (formerly monkeypox) can cause fever, chills, headache, muscle aches, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, and rash.
- Mpox is distinguished from COVID by swollen lymph nodes and a rash that often looks like blisters or pimples.
- Mpox is usually spread from one person to another through close contact (often skin-to-skin). To date, the majority of patients diagnosed with mpox have been men who reported sexual or close intimate contact with other men, sometimes with anonymous or multiple partners. Anyone who has high-risk contact with a person with mpox can be infected, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. For more information, please refer to the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
- The mpox virus can also stay alive on objects or surfaces touched by people who are infected. Hand sanitizer and common household disinfectants kill the virus.
- Patients with exposure to mpox or possible symptoms of mpox can make a telemedicine appointment by calling Hall Health at 206-616-2495. At the telemedicine visit, the provider may recommend an in-person appointment for further evaluation.
- Testing for mpox at Hall Health is limited. We are open by appointment to all UW Seattle Campus students, but we are currently not able to see new patients who are not UW Seattle students.
- The vaccines used for smallpox can also protect against mpox. The WHO is not recommending mass vaccination for most people at this time, but people in some high-risk groups are eligible. Hall Health does not carry the vaccine.
- More information about the mpox outbreak can be found here:
- UW Environmental Health & Safety
- Seattle & King County Department of Public Health: Monkeypox
