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Updated August 18, 2022
For the latest, up-to-date monkeypox information, please see the CDC website.
Monkeypox is a rare disease caused by infection with the monkeypox virus. Monkeypox virus is part of the same family of viruses as variola virus, the virus that causes smallpox. Monkeypox symptoms are similar to smallpox symptoms, but milder, and monkeypox is rarely fatal. Monkeypox is not related to chickenpox.
People with monkeypox get a rash that may be located on or near the genitals or anus and could be on other areas like the hands, feet, chest, face, or mouth.
Other symptoms may include:
Monkeypox can spread through close, personal, often skin-to-skin contact, including:
Yes. The CDC recommends vaccination for people who have been exposed to monkeypox and people who may be more likely to get monkeypox.
People more likely to get monkeypox include:
We are not vaccinating against monkeypox at John Muir Health. Vaccines are being offered by Contra Costa County:
Contra Costa County monkeypox vaccine scheduling
If you are a John Muir Health patient, please schedule an appointment with your primary care provider or one of our Urgent Care Centers. Be sure to tell them about any rashes you have and/or that you think you may have been exposed to monkeypox. We are testing patients with symptoms or suspected exposures in our provider offices and Urgent Care Centers. There is not currently a home test for monkeypox.
Before coming into our facilities, please wash or sanitize your hands. When you arrive, make sure your rash is covered and wear a face mask to prevent possible exposures. If you have MyChart activated, you may eCheck-in prior to your appointment to reduce time spent in our reception area. When you arrive, we’ll take you to an exam room as quickly as possible.
There are no treatments specifically for monkeypox virus infections. However, treatments for other viruses may be used, particularly for people with weakened immune systems.
If you have symptoms of monkeypox, you should talk to your healthcare provider, even if you don’t think you had contact with someone who has monkeypox.
Most people with monkeypox recover fully within 2 to 4 weeks without the need for medical treatment.
Yes, we disinfect all surfaces in waiting areas and clinical exam rooms with products shown to kill monkeypox.