Contact Us
Visit Us
MyChart
Monkeypox is a rare disease that is caused when a person is infected by the monkeypox virus. The monkeypox virus is from the same family as smallpox but not related to chickenpox. As of June of 2022 there has been a significant increase in cases.
Symptoms of Monkeypox
Symptoms of monkeypox are similar to those of other common viruses like the flu and may include:
The monkeypox rash can appear anywhere, including in places like the genitals (private parts) as well as other areas like the hands, feet, or mouth. The rash may look like pimples or blisters that may be painful or itchy. Some people who get monkeypox will get only the rash, others may experience rash and some of the other symptoms above.
How Monkeypox Spreads
The monkeypox virus can spread from person to person through close contact with an infected person. Usually this includes direct skin-to-skin contact with rash, scabs or bodily fluids. Monkeypox may spread from prolonged face to face contact or during intimate contact including kissing or sex. It can also be spread through contact with objects (such as towels or linens) that an infected person has touched. The virus can also be spread from a pregnant person to their fetus.
A person with monkeypox can spread it from the time symptoms start until the rash and scabs have fully healed and a new layer of skin has formed, which is usually 2-4 weeks. Symptoms start within 3 weeks of being exposed to the virus.
Keeping Yourself Safe From Monkeypox
There are several steps you can take to keep yourself and loved ones safe and prevent catching monkeypox. These include:
People who are at a high risk of getting monkeypox include:
If you are at high risk for monkeypox, get a vaccine. The monkeypox vaccine is available through the Infectious Diseases department. Please call 203-503-3146.
What To Do If You Think You Have Monkeypox
If you have a strange rash or other symptoms of monkeypox, be sure to call your healthcare provider right away to request testing. Stay isolated at home, and disinfect your home regularly. Avoid all physical contact and wear a mask in shared spaces.
For full disinfection and isolation information, and for more information on monkeypox, visit the
Center for Disease Control’s website.
Frequently Asked Questions
We are part of your community and are ready to help you! See below some of the frequently asked questions we get. If you can not find the answer to you question here, please call us at 203-503-3000.
