YOUR MPOX (MONKEYPOX) RESOURCES PAGE

WHAT IS IT?

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Mpox (monkeypox) is a rare disease caused by infection with the monkeypox virus.

Mpox transmission typically requires skin-to-skin contact, direct contact with body fluids, or prolonged face-to-face contact.

Symptoms are similar to smallpox, but less severe. They begin with flu-like symptoms like fever, headache, muscle aches, and swollen lymph nodes. A rash that can look like pimples or blisters may appear on the face, inside the mouth, and on other parts of the body.

It is rarely fatal. Most people recover in two to four weeks.

HOW DO I GET TESTED?

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You can get tested for mpox if you have a new rash and think you may have been exposed to mpox.

Your regular doctor can help determine if you need a test. Mesa County Public Health can help if you don’t have a regular doctor or insurance.

Call us at 970-248-6900 and we’ll help you with the next steps.

WE’RE HERE FOR YOU.

Our team is here to help you find answers and resources.

Call us at 970-248-6900 or email us at healthinfo@mesacounty.us.

HOW DO I GET A VACCINE?

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If you were exposed to mpox or are at high risk for exposure, you can get a vaccine called Jynneos.

Mesa County Public Health has vaccines available for those who qualify.

Those who qualify for the vaccine include:

- Anyone (any sexual orientation or gender identity) who has had close physical contact with someone who has mpox in the last 14 days.
- Anyone (any sexual orientation or gender identity) who:
  - - - Has had multiple sexual partners in the last 14 days
      - Has had sexual partners they did not previously know in the last 14 days
      - Has had close physical contact with other people in a venue where anonymous or group sex may occur in the last 14 days
      - Was diagnosed with gonorrhea or syphilis in the past three months
      - Who already uses or is eligible for HIV PrEP (medication to prevent HIV, e.g. Truvada or Descovy or Apretude)
      - Who engages in commercial and/or transactional sex (e.g. sex in exchange for money, shelter, food, and other goods or needs)
      - Anyone (any sexual orientation or gender identity) identified by public health as a known high-risk contact of someone who has monkeypox.