Mpox Information
The CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) is currently tracking cases of mpox recently detected in the United States. Harris County Public Health urges healthcare providers across the county to be alert for patients who have rash illnesses consistent with mpox.
The HHS Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices recommends vaccination for those at high risk following a confirmed mpox exposure. The general threat of mpox to the public is considered LOW at this time. However, scientists at the CDC are tracking multiple cases of mpox that have been reported in several countries that don’t normally report mpox, including the United States.
It is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of Mpox:
- Symptoms of Monkeypox
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Mpox symptoms
People with mpox 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.
- The rash can initially look like pimples or blisters and may be painful or itchy.
Other symptoms of mpox can include:
- Fever
- Chills
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Exhaustion
- Muscle aches and backache
How long do mpox symptoms last?
Mpox symptoms usually start within three weeks of exposure to the virus. If someone has flu-like symptoms, they usually develop a rash one to four days later.
Mpox can be spread from when symptoms start until the rash has healed, all scabs have fallen off, and a fresh layer of skin has formed. The illness typically lasts two to four weeks.
source: CDC - https://www.cdc.gov/poxvirus/monkeypox/symptoms.html
- Mpox vaccinations
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The HHS Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices recommends vaccination for those at high risk following a confirmed mpox exposure. The general threat of mpox to the public is considered LOW at this time. However, scientists at the CDC are tracking multiple cases of mpox that have been reported in several countries that don’t normally report mpox, including the United States.
Mpox vaccinations are available to individuals who have been directly exposed to mpox and/or are at a high risk of contracting the mpox virus. It is not recommended for everyone and will be provided to residents pending authorization from the local health department in partnership with a primary care provider or approved medical group.
HCPH also calls on our local healthcare partners to be vigilant and report cases of mpox to their local health department immediately when confirmed. HCPH’s disease surveillance team will monitor suspected cases in Harris County and guide individuals who may have come into contact with a mpox case.Harris County Public Health will continue to monitor and provide mpox guidance, and vaccination opportunities for residents as the situation unfolds.
Source: Harris Health - https://publichealth.harriscountytx.gov/monkeypox
Student Health Services is not an urgent care facility or an emergency room. To avoid delayed care, students experiencing an urgent medical need should consider going to one of the facilities on our website. If you are unsure where to go, a doctor or nurse at SHS can assist you with information. Please call 713-348-4966. For an emergency, call 713-348-6000.