Since May 2022, there have been cases of mpox in several countries where the disease is not normally found, including Canada. The World Health Organization declared mpox a public health emergency of international concern most recently in August 2024.
Mpox is a viral infection. Viruses like mpox spread through contact in social networks. The virus can affect anyone through close person-to-person contact.
How does mpox spread?
Mpox spreads through close contact with a person who is infected with the virus through:
- Skin-to-skin contact.
- Bedding, sheets or clothing that has the virus on it.
- Rashes.
- Droplets from coughs and sneezes during prolonged face-to-face contact.
Stigmatizing someone or a group of people because of an infection is NEVER okay.
Symptoms of mpox
Symptoms usually start 5-21 days after being exposed to the virus. They typically last 2-4 weeks. Rashes can appear on the face, hands, feet and/or genitals and can spread to other parts of the body.
Other symptoms may include:
- fever
- chills
- swollen lymph nodes
- headache
- muscle pain
- joint pain
- back pain
- exhaustion
People at higher risk of severe illness from mpox infection include: people who have a weaker immune system (i.e. people living with HIV who are not on treatment), young children, and pregnant people.
What to do if you have been exposed
- Contact your health-care provider. They will arrange for further assessment and testing.
- There is a vaccine (Imvamune) that is recommended for people who are at high-risk of being exposed to mpox, or who have had high-risk exposure(s). Talk to your health-care provider and they can discuss with public health.
- Monitor for symptoms. Symptoms can start between 5-21 days after contact with a person with mpox infection.
- Avoid spreading mpox to others.
If you have symptoms or suspect you may have mpox, contact your health care provider and:
- wear a mask;
- avoid contact with others (including sexual contacts and those you live with);
- cover lesions with a bandage or clean clothes (e.g. long sleeve shirts and long pants);
- do not share items that have touched skin (e.g. sheets, towels, clothes);
- wash surfaces and your hands regularly.
In NL, Public Health will contact people who have a possible or confirmed infection with mpox, along with people who have been in close contact with them. Public Health provides information about ways to stop the spread of mpox.
Treatment for mpox
- Most people with mpox have mild symptoms. These symptoms often go away in 2-4 weeks and don’t require treatment beyond pain relievers and other symptom control (e.g. fever relief, fluids, etc.).
- In rare cases, when mpox is severe, it may require medication and/or hospitalization for symptom management.
What can I do?
- Get vaccinated. A vaccine is available for individuals who meet the criteria.
- Be aware. Know what mpox is and its symptoms. Protect yourself and others.
- Monitor for symptoms. Look for new rashes on your body, especially if you have been exposed.
- Contact your health-care provider or call 811 if you have been exposed and/or if you have symptoms. They will arrange for further assessment and testing.
Services related to this information:
- Contact Public Health:
- 811 HealthLine (Newfoundland & Labrador) – Call 811 or 1-888-709-2929 / TTY 1-888-709-3555
Eastern Zones:
