Mpox Prevention

Take the following steps to prevent getting mpox:

  • Avoid close, skin to skin contact with the mpox rash.
    • Do not touch the rash or scabs of person with mpox.
    • Do not kiss, hug, cuddle or have sex with someone with mpox.
    • Do not share eating utensils or cups.
  • Do not handle or touch the bedding, towels, or clothing of a sick person.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, especially after contact with sick people.
  • In Central and West Africa, avoid contact with animals that can spread mpox virus, usually rodents and primates. Also, avoid sick or dead animals, as well as bedding or other materials they have touched.

A person who is sick with mpox should isolate at home. If they have an active rash or other symptoms, they should be in a separate room or area from other family members and pets when possible.

Vaccination

CDC does not recommend widespread vaccination against mpox at this time. However, vaccination may be recommended for some people who:

  • Are close personal contacts of people with mpox
  • May have been exposed to the virus
  • May have increased risk of being exposed to the virus, such as people who perform laboratory testing to diagnose mpox