What are the symptoms of monkeypox?

Monkeypox may cause fever and swollen lymph nodes. Headache, muscle and backache, chills, and exhaustion can also be present. A painful rash develops and goes through several stages including fluid and pus-filled blisters that eventually get crusty, scab over, and fall off.

Can monkeypox spread through sex?

Monkeypox can spread through any type of skin-to-skin contact with an infected person including, but not limited to, sexual contact. At this point, it is not known if monkeypox virus will spread through semen or vaginal fluids. However, the rash can look similar to symptoms of STIs such as herpes and syphilis. Mouth-to-skin contact can spread monkeypox when blisters are present. Condoms may not prevent the spread of monkeypox.

What should I do if I think I have monkeypox?

If you think you have monkeypox, contact the OSDH Epi-on-Call at 405-426-8710 for a free confidential consultation, or your healthcare provider for advice, testing, and medical care. Self-isolate away from others to protect them from infection. Cover all possible blisters (e.g., wearing clothing over the rash).

What should I do if I am a contact to a confirmed
monkeypox case?

Close contacts to someone who has monkeypox may be eligible for post-exposure vaccination to prevent illness. For close contact consultation, call the OSDH Epi-on-Call at 405-426-8710. Monitor yourself for symptoms for 21days from exposure. If symptoms develop, self-isolate away from others and contact the OSDH Epi-on-Call or your healthcare provider for advice and testing.