Mpox (Monkey Pox) – Everything you need to know

Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a rare viral disease that can affect both humans and animals. The disease has been most widespread in parts of Africa, but in recent years there have been increasing cases in other parts of the world, including Norway.

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What is Mpox?

Mpox is a disease caused by a virus that belongs to the same family as the smallpox virus.

The disease often causes flu-like symptoms, followed by a rash.

Although most cases are mild, in some cases Mpox can lead to serious complications, especially in people with weakened immune systems.

Symptoms of Mpox

Fever
Headache
Muscle pain
Back pain
Swollen lymph nodes
Freezing
Exhaustion
A rash that often starts on the face and spreads to other parts of the body

Symptoms usually appear 5 to 21 days after infection. The rash develops through various stages, from spots to blisters, before finally forming crusts that fall off.

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How the rash develops (Mpox)

The rash associated with mpox is characteristic and progresses through several distinct stages. It typically begins 1–3 days after a fever develops, though for some, the rash may be the very first sign of illness.

Where does it start? Unlike many other viral infections, the mpox rash often begins on specific areas of the body:

The face and inside the mouth
The genitals and around the anus
From there, it may spread to other parts of the body, including the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet.

Stages of the rash: It is important to note that the appearance of the rash changes throughout the course of the illness:

Macules: Flat, red spots on the skin.

Papules: The spots become raised and turn into firm bumps.

Vesicles: The bumps fill with clear fluid, becoming blisters.

Pustules: The fluid becomes cloudy or yellowish (resembling pimples), often developing a small circular depression in the center.

Scabbing: The pustules dry up, and crusty scabs form.

Important: You are considered infectious from the moment the first symptoms appear until the scabs have fallen off and new, healthy skin has formed underneath. This process usually takes 2 to 4 weeks.

How does Mpox infect?

Mpox is transmitted through close contact with an infected person's body fluids, rashes or mucous membranes.

The disease can also be transmitted from animals to humans by direct contact or through the consumption of undercooked meat from infected animals.

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Treatment and vaccination against Mpox

Treatment

Most people who get Mpox do not need specific treatment and will recover on their own after a few weeks. For those experiencing more severe symptoms, treatment may be necessary. At Dr. Dropin, we can give advice and guidance on how to best manage the disease, as well as help you with possible symptom-relieving treatment.

Vaccination

The Institute of Public Health (FHI) recommends that people in specific risk groups consider vaccination against Mpox. This includes people at high risk of exposure, such as healthcare workers who work with infectious diseases. Dr. Dropin currently does not offer vaccination against Mpox, but can advise whether you should be vaccinated.

Prevention of Mpox

To protect yourself from Mpox, it is recommended to:

Avoid close contact with people who are infected or have symptoms of Mpox.
Practice good hand hygiene by regularly washing hands with soap and water or using alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Avoid contact with wild animals and be careful with the consumption of meat that is not sufficiently cooked.

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Updated information from FHI (2024)

In 2024, the Norwegian Institute of Public Health (FHI) has issued updated guidelines for managing Mpox in Norway:

Vaccination: FHI recommends vaccination for individuals in risk groups, including healthcare workers and others with high exposure risk.
Infection Control: Continue following infection control measures, including hand hygiene and avoiding close contact with infected individuals.
Treatment: Early treatment is crucial if symptoms of Mpox develop.

For more detailed information, visit FHI's website.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between Mpox and monkeypox?

Mpox is the new name for what was previously called monkeypox. The name change was made to avoid stigmatization and better reflect the nature of the disease.

How can I test myself for Mpox?

The actual sample that tests for Mpox is a brush sample from the rash, alternatively a sample from the throat or rectum if the symptoms are there.

From FHI: "If you suspect that you are infected with mpox and get symptoms such as fever, rash, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes or other things, you should avoid close contact with others, especially people with weakened immune systems, pregnant women, small children (under 6 years) and frail elderly You should also avoid contact with animals/pets in case of symptoms.

You should contact the health service (GP, emergency room, clinic for sexual health or other) by telephone and ask for an appointment for examination and sampling. This also applies to vaccinated people."

Is Mpox dangerous?

For most people, Mpox is a mild disease that goes away on its own. However, complications can occur in some cases, especially in people with a weakened immune system. It is therefore important to take symptoms seriously and seek medical help if you are in the risk group.

How can I protect myself from Mpox?

Avoid close contact with infected people and practice good hand hygiene. If you are in a risk group, you should consider getting vaccinated.