Monkeypox is a rare disease caused by infection with the monkeypox virus. Monkeypox virus is part of the same family of viruses as the variola virus, the virus that causes smallpox. Monkeypox symptoms are similar to smallpox symptoms but milder, and monkeypox is rarely fatal.
People with monkeypox get a rash that can initially look like pimples or blisters and may be painful or itchy. The rash will go through several stages, including scabs, before healing.
To protect yourself from Monkeypox, stay informed. Click HERE for the latest information. It is recommended that you:
- Avoid close, skin-to-skin contact with people who have a rash that looks like monkeypox.
- Do not touch the rash or scabs of a person with monkeypox.
- Do not kiss, hug, cuddle or have sex with someone with monkeypox.
- Avoid contact with objects and materials that a person with monkeypox has used.
- Do not share eating utensils or cups with a person who has monkeypox.
- Do not handle or touch the bedding, towels, or clothing of a person with monkeypox.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, especially before eating or touching your face and after you use the bathroom.
Tests and Vaccines for monkeypox are in short supply and individuals must meet certain criteria guidelines. Anyone experiencing symptoms of monkeypox should see their healthcare provider or call us at 435-792-6500 to see if they qualify for a test.
The Monkeypox vaccine is currently not available to the general public. Vaccination is being given to those people at the highest risk of exposure including:
- People who have been identified by public health officials as a contact of someone with monkeypox.
- People who are aware that one of their sexual partners in the past 2 weeks has been diagnosed with monkeypox.
- People who had multiple sexual partners in the past 2 weeks in an area with known monkeypox.
For more information about the vaccine, click HERE.
To see the most current data regarding the number of cases in Utah, click HERE.