Monkeypox is a rare contagious rash illness caused by the monkeypox virus. The virus is in the same family of viruses as the virus that causes smallpox. Monkeypox causes milder illness than smallpox, but some symptoms can be severe. The monkeypox virus can spread from animals to people and from person to person.
In 2022, a monkeypox outbreak began. There are cases in many countries or areas where this infection is not usually found, including in the U.S. and in Virginia.
- Vaccination against monkeypox is not recommended or necessary for most people at this point
- Most people are not eligible for a monkeypox vaccine at this point
- If you would like more information, or to see if you are eligible for a monkeypox vaccination, please contact your local health department or visit VDH’s Monkeypox website: https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/monkeypox/
The risk to the general public is considered low at this time.
Anyone can get and spread monkeypox; however, it is spread by close contact with an infected person. Close contact includes touching skin lesions, bodily fluids, or clothing or linens that have been in contact with an infected person. Spread can also occur during prolonged, face-to-face contact.
Monkeypox can spread from person to person through:
- Sexual or intimate contact (including oral, anal, and vaginal sex)
- Hugging, kissing, cuddling, and massage
- Sharing a bed, sharing a towel, or sharing clothes that have not been washed
The highest risk activity at present is sex with multiple or anonymous partners. Avoiding these activities greatly reduces your risk of catching or spreading monkeypox.
Monkeypox does not spread from person to person through:
- Walking by someone who is infected
- Casual conversation with someone infected