Monkeypox Information

Monkeypox is a viral infection caused by the monkeypox virus, which is in the same family as smallpox, although much less severe. Its name is characterized by the pox illness that occurs upon infection, leading to an outbreak of lesions spreading from the face to the rest of the body, including the genital areas. Monkeypox is rarely fatal and is not related to chickenpox.

UNK Student Health encourages students to learn about monkeypox and protect themselves.

• Monkeypox is a viral infection primarily spread through prolonged close contact
• Anyone can be at risk, regardless of gender or sexual orientation
• The most common symptom is a rash or sores that look like pimples or blisters. Some people experience fevers and fatigue before or after the rash develops

Monkeypox can spread to anyone through close, personal, often skin-to-skin contact, including:

• Direct contact with monkeypox rash, scabs or body fluids from a person with monkeypox
• Touching objects, fabrics (clothing, bedding or towels) and surfaces that have been used by someone with monkeypox
• Contact with respiratory secretions

This direct contact can happen during intimate contact, including:

• Oral, anal and vaginal sex or touching the genitals or anus of a person with monkeypox
• Hugging, massage and kissing
• Prolonged face-to-face contact

The illness usually begins within 2 to 3 weeks of exposure. People with monkeypox get a rash that may be located on or near the genitals, anus or other areas such as the hands, feet, chest, face or mouth. The rash can initially look like pimples or blisters and will go through several stages, including scabs, before healing. Sometimes, people have flu-like symptoms before the rash.

Other symptoms of monkeypox can include:

• Fever and chills
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Exhaustion, muscle aches, headache
• Sore throat, nasal congestion or cough

• Avoid sex and other intimate contact with multiple or anonymous partners
• Avoid contact with objects and materials that a person with monkeypox has used, including bedding, clothing, towels, cups and eating utensils
• Wash your hands often or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, especially before eating or touching your face and after you use the bathroom.

There are no treatments specifically for monkeypox virus infections. Most people recover fully within 2 to 4 weeks without the need for medical treatment. Antiviral drugs and vaccines developed to protect against smallpox may be used to prevent and treat monkeypox virus infections. Most people get better on their own without treatment. Your health care provider may also be able to provide medication for symptom relief.

If you develop symptoms concerning monkeypox, please isolate yourself from others immediately and talk to your health care provider. 

Is monkeypox a Sexually Transmitted Infection? There are false rumors online claiming people can only get monkeypox if they have sex with an infected person. On the contrary, monkeypox is a virus that can be transmitted with or without sexual contact.

Does monkeypox only occur in men who have sex with men? No. Although the recent outbreak is currently affecting gay or bisexual men disproportionately, it can affect anyone and is not exclusive to this group.

Can I get monkeypox from surfaces? It’s possible, but good hand washing and avoiding ill people reduces your risk. Continue to sanitize high-touch surfaces, especially if you live with, sleep with or care for an infected person.