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Page last reviewed: May 1, 2023
Mpox Symptoms
Mpox is a rare disease caused by infection with the mpox virus. Mpox virus is part of the same family of viruses as smallpox. Mpox symptoms are similar to smallpox symptoms, but milder; and mpox is rarely fatal. Mpox is not related to chickenpox.
- Symptoms include a rash or sores (pox), sometimes after flu-like symptoms: fever, headache, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, chills, and exhaustion.
- The rash that can look like pimples or blisters.
- People who develop a rash need to avoid direct contact with other people and contact their health care provider as soon as possible.
- Infectious period: From the time symptoms start until all sores — even scabs — have healed with a new layer of skin formed.
- People need to contact a medial provider if they believe they were exposed or infected with mpox.
- Virus spreads through close, direct contact with the rash, scabs, or bodily fluids like saliva; respiratory droplets.