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mpox

What is Mpox?

Mpox is a contagious illness caused by a pox virus. The virus is in the same family of viruses as the virus that causes smallpox. Mpox causes milder illness than smallpox, but some symptoms can be severe. The mpox virus spreads from close personal contact but can also spread from animals to people. 

Mpox outbreaks are evolving, with two types of Mpox, clade I and clade II. For more information, visit the VDH's Mpox website.

Mpox Outbreaks

  • The ongoing global outbreak that began in 2022 and affected the United States has been caused by clade II.  
  • The large ongoing outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and surrounding countries has been caused by clade I. 
    • On August 14, 2024, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared mpox to be a public health emergency of international concern. The declaration is WHO’s highest level of alert for countries around the world. 

Scheduling with Student Health and Wellness

To make an appointment with SHW for Mpox concerns, call  call 434-982-3915 to schedule a phone call with a nurse. Our nursing staff can answer your questions or schedule you an appointment with one of our providers.

FAQs

Am I at risk for mpox?

Find the answer to this question on the Virginia Department of Health's mpox website here.

Do I have symptoms of mpox?

To view a list of all current mpox symptoms, visit the Virginia Department of Health's mpox website here.

What should I do if I have symptoms of mpox?

If you have symptoms, you should separate yourself from other people and pets, cover your lesions, and call 434-982-3915 to schedule a nurse phone call with Student Health and Wellness.

What should I do if I've been exposed to mpox?

If you think you have been exposed to mpox, self-isolate and call 434-982-3915 to schedule a nurse phone call with Student Health and Wellness.

How can I prevent mpox?

Check out a list of measures you can take to help prevent the spread of mpox on the Virginia Department of Health's mpox website here.

I am at high risk of exposure to mpox, how can I get a vaccine to prevent infection?

Click here for information about the vaccine and a link to find an appointment.

I live off Grounds, where can I find instructions on how to clean my room?

The CDC provides considerations on cleaning and disinfecting settings such as homes and cars that may be contaminated with mpox virus, view the website here.