How do I keep from getting Mpox (monkeypox)?

Cases of Mpox (previously called monkeypox) in the United States have been reported over the past year. Here are some steps you can take to reduce your risk of getting infected with Mpox.

Avoid exposure

Mpox is transmitted by coming into contact with sores or respiratory secretions of infected people. It can also be transmitted by touching or handling clothing, bedding, and objects used by an infected individual.

You can keep from getting infected by avoiding contact with the sores of an individual infected with Mpox. Do not hug, cuddle, kiss, or have sex with someone infected with Mpox.

Do not share cups or eating utensils with someone infected, and do not handle or touch bedding, clothing, or towels from a person infected with Mpox. Make sure you use hand sanitizer or wash your hands with soap and water often, especially after using the bathroom or before eating or touching your face.

Consider vaccination

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the following people should get the vaccine:

• Anyone who has been identified by a public health department as being in contact with someone with Mpox
• Anyone who is aware that a sexual partner within the prior 2 weeks has been diagnosed with Mpox
• Anyone who has had multiple sexual partners within the past 2 weeks in an area with known Mpox
• Anyone whose job may expose them to Mpox or similar viruses like smallpox, including lab workers who perform tests for these viruses or handle cultures, and healthcare or public health workers.

Related questions

• I have Monkeypox (Mpox): What should I do?
• What is TPOXX used to treat?
• How do I get Mpox (Monkeypox)?

What vaccines are available?

There are two vaccines available that offer protection against Mpox. Jynneos has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration to prevent Mpox or smallpox. It is given as two shots 4 weeks apart. It takes 14 days after the second dose to be fully effective.

ACAM2000 has been approved to prevent smallpox, and it is expected to be effective at preventing Mpox too. It is given as one dose and is fully effective 4 weeks after the shot is given.

ACAM2000 has more side effects than Jynneos and should not be used in patients with compromised immune systems. Both vaccines can cause injection site reactions, but ACAM2000 has been found to be associated with some cases of pericarditis or myocarditis.

Talk to your pharmacist if you think you may qualify for the vaccine or need help finding where you can go to get the vaccine.