Monkeypox (Mpox) is a rare disease that is caused by infection with the Mpox virus. The Mpox virus belongs to the Orthopoxvirus genus which includes the variola (smallpox) virus as well as the vaccinia virus, which is used in the smallpox vaccine. Mpox is a public health concern because the illness is similar to smallpox and can be spread from infected humans, animals, and materials contaminated with the virus. Mpox is less transmissible and usually less severe than smallpox. 

Overall, the risk to the general public remains very low based on information currently available. It is still vital to remain vigilant and take precautions as needed. Close, sustained skin-to-lesion contact, including sexual contact, with a person with Mpox appears to be the major mechanism associated with transmission among recent cases. While Mpox can infect anyone, a majority of cases have occurred among person self-identifying as men who have sex with men. 

Find more information from the Center for Diseases Control regarding current Mpox guidelines. 

In humans, symptoms of Mpox can be similar but milder than symptoms of smallpox.

Symptoms can begin with:

• Fever
• Headache
• Muscle aches
• Backache
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Chills
• Exhaustion

The time from infection to symptoms for Mpox can range anywhere from 5 to 21 days. The illness typically lasts for 2−4 weeks.

Anyone who has symptoms of Mpox, such as characteristic rashes or lesions, should contact a health care provider right away. Your doctor will determine whether testing is appropriate.

Home Isolation Instructions for People with Mpox

If you test positive for Mpox you are required to:

1. Isolate - stay home and avoid contact with others.
2. Provide us (Sutter County Public Health) with contact information for your close contacts so we can notify them confidentially and provide them instructions for self-monitoring.
3. Follow the steps outlined in the home isolation instructions for people with Mpox.

For more information, view CDC Mpox guidance and CDC Isolation and Infection Control at Home.

California Department of Public Health

• CDPH Stop the Stigma - Mpox

Sutter County Public Health

• Mpox Palm Cards - Schools - Stop the Stigma
• Mpox Fact Sheets - Schools