What is Monkeypox?

Monkeypox is a rare disease caused by the monkeypox virus (MPV). It is usually a self-limited disease with the symptoms lasting 2 to 4 weeks.

MPV is transmitted from one person to another by close contact with lesions, body fuilds, resporatory droplets, and contaminated materials such as bedding.

Positive Impact Health Centers is working with the State and local infectious disease experts to control the spread of MPV.

We provide MPV vaccination, testing, and education. People experiencing symptoms, such as bumps, rash, or lesions can be tested.

Due to a national vaccine shortage, it is important to take steps to prevent MPV.

Monkeypox symptoms

People with monkeypox get a rash that may be located on or near the genitals (penis, testicles, labia, and vagina) or anus (butthole) and could be on other areas like the hands, feet, chest, face, or mouth. The rash will go through several stages, including scabs, before healing. It can initially look like pimples or blisters and may be painful or itchy.

Other symptoms of monkeypox can include:

Fever
Chills
Swollen lymph nodes
Exhaustion
Muscle aches and backache
Headache
Respiratory symptoms (e.g. sore throat, nasal congestion, or cough)

Direct contact with MPV can happen during intimate contact, including:

(Condoms do not protect you from monkeypox

Oral, anal, and vaginal sex or touching the genitals (penis, testicles, labia, and vagina) or anus (butthole) of a person with monkeypox.
Hugging, massage, and kissing.
Prolonged face-to-face contact.
Touching fabrics and objects during sex that were used by a person with monkeypox and that have not been disinfected, such as bedding, towels, fetish gear, and sex toys.