Know the Mpox Signs and Symptoms
Mpox symptoms usually start within 3 weeks of exposure to the virus. For many people, the illness starts with flu-like symptoms that begin a few days before the rash appears.
Symptoms of Mpox
What are the symptoms of mpox?
Initial symptoms can include:
- Fever or chills
- Headache
- Muscle aches and backache
- Tiredness
- Swollen lymph nodes
For some people, a rash may be their only symptom.
Mpox Rash
What does the mpox rash look like?
The rash can look like pimples or blisters. It often begins on the genitals or perianal area, or in and around the mouth. In these situations, the mpox rash could be confused with a more common sexually transmitted infection (STI). The rash might develop on just one part of the body or can appear on many parts of the body. These lesions might be painful.
Rash lesions go through different stages, shown in the photographs below, before healing.
Photo credit: UK Health Security Agency
Length of Illness
How long does the illness last?
The illness typically lasts 2-4 weeks. People with certain conditions may be more likely to develop severe illness. These include people with weakened immune systems, children under 8 years of age, people with a history of eczema, and people who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
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Last updated: December 1, 2022
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