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Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a viral infection that causes skin lesions and flu-like symptoms. It spreads through close, personal contact — including sex — and was declared a public health emergency in 2022 due to a global outbreak. While mpox isn’t classified strictly as an STI, it often spreads through sexual activity, especially in networks of men who have sex with men (MSM).
Mpox is caused by the monkeypox virus, part of the same family as smallpox. It can infect anyone, regardless of gender or sexuality, though certain communities have been disproportionately affected.
Most people recover in a few weeks, but the rash can be painful and sometimes leaves scars. Some people, especially those with weakened immune systems or HIV, may be at higher risk for complications.
What Are Symptoms of Mpox?
Mpox symptoms usually start within 3 weeks of exposure. Some people experience flu-like symptoms first, followed by the appearance of sores or lesions. Others go straight to a rash without the early fever or fatigue.
In people with male biology:
- Painful or itchy rash on the penis, scrotum, anus, or thighs
- Swollen lymph nodes in the groin
- Sores that may be mistaken for herpes, syphilis, or ingrown hairs
In people with female biology:
- Rash on the vulva, vagina, or anal area
- Lesions may be internal and harder to detect
- Pain with urination, vaginal discharge, or rectal discomfort in some cases
In everyone:
- Fever, chills, fatigue, muscle aches
- Headache or backache
- A rash that progresses from red spots to firm, pus-filled bumps, and then scabs over
- Itching or pain, especially in genital and anal areas
Sores can appear anywhere on the body but are most common on or around the genitals, anus, mouth, and hands.
What Does Mpox Look Like?
The mpox rash often starts as flat red spots, then turns into raised bumps, blisters, or pustules that scab and heal. These sores can be extremely painful, especially in sensitive areas like the genitals or anus.
You might see:
- One or many lesions that resemble pimples, herpes, or syphilis
- Ulcers or open sores that eventually crust over
- Clusters of bumps or individual isolated lesions
Because of its overlap with other STIs, many people mistake mpox for herpes or syphilis. Testing is the only way to know for sure.
How Is Mpox Transmitted?
Mpox spreads through direct skin-to-skin contact, especially during intimate or sexual contact. It can also spread via respiratory droplets during close face-to-face interactions, or by touching contaminated fabrics like towels or bedding.
You can get mpox from:
- Sex (oral, anal, or vaginal)
- Kissing, cuddling, or close dancing
- Shared sex toys or bedding
- Prolonged face-to-face conversation
Is mpox an STI?
Not officially — but during the 2022 outbreak, most cases were linked to sexual contact. It’s now considered a sexually transmissible infection, even if it’s not limited to sex.
Who’s at risk?
Anyone can get mpox, but in recent outbreaks, it’s been most common among sexually active gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (MSM).
How Do You Test for Mpox?
Mpox is diagnosed by testing fluid from a lesion (skin swab). You’ll need to see a provider while symptoms are present — especially if you have new sores in or around the genitals, anus, or mouth.
What testing involves:
- Swabbing a visible lesion or sore
- Sometimes a throat swab if you have oral symptoms
- Results usually take a few days
There’s no blood test for mpox. If you think you’ve been exposed or notice a new rash, it’s important to get evaluated as soon as possible.
How Is Mpox Treated?
Most mpox infections resolve on their own in 2 to 4 weeks without medication. However, symptoms — especially genital sores — can be painful and disruptive.
Symptom relief includes:
- Pain medication (e.g., ibuprofen or acetaminophen)
- Warm baths or sitz baths for anal/genital pain
- Topical lidocaine for pain relief on sores
- Keeping sores clean and dry to avoid infection
Antiviral treatment:
People with severe mpox or weakened immune systems (including HIV) may qualify for tecovirimat (TPOXX), an antiviral medication used under an expanded access program.
Talk to a provider if your symptoms worsen or last longer than 2 weeks.
Complications of Mpox
Mpox can cause complications if not monitored or managed properly, particularly in vulnerable individuals. Possible complications include:
- Painful rectal inflammation (proctitis)
- Scarring in sensitive areas
- Secondary bacterial infections of skin lesions
- Eye infections if lesions are touched and then rubbed into the eye
- Worsening symptoms in people with HIV or immunocompromising conditions
Outlook & Prognosis
Most people recover fully from mpox within a month, though some experience fatigue or scarring after lesions heal. Early detection and rest are key.
If you have HIV, managing your immune health can reduce the risk of severe mpox symptoms. Talk to your provider about TPOXX or vaccination options.
Living With Mpox
Being diagnosed with mpox can feel isolating — especially with the stigma surrounding outbreaks in LGBTQ+ communities. But mpox is not a reflection of your choices or identity. It’s a virus that spreads through contact — and anyone can get it.
During recovery:
- Avoid sex and close contact until lesions are fully healed
- Let partners and recent contacts know — they may need monitoring or vaccination
- Use virtual check-ins or text to stay socially connected
- Stay hydrated and rest to support healing
Vaccination, education, and community care are helping bring mpox under control. But reducing stigma is just as important as reducing spread.
How to Tell Your Partner(s) You Have Mpox
Telling someone you have mpox isn’t easy — but it’s the right thing to do. You might say:
“I’ve recently been diagnosed with mpox. It spreads through close contact, including sex, and I wanted to let you know so you can look out for symptoms or talk to a provider.”
Key points to share:
- Mpox is treatable and usually goes away on its own
- It can look like other STIs — so testing matters
- You’re letting them know because you care, not to cause blame
Most people appreciate your honesty — and may even be relieved to know someone responsible is looking out for them.
Last reviewed: May 2025
This content is regularly reviewed and updated to reflect the latest medical guidelines.
- Caused by: Monkeypox virus (a type of orthopoxvirus)
- Spread through: Skin-to-skin contact, sex, saliva, shared fabrics or surfaces
- Symptoms: Rash, painful sores, fever, chills, swollen lymph nodes, fatigue
- Testing: Swab of lesion; no blood test
- Treatment: Symptom care; TPOXX (tecovirimat) for severe cases
- Risk if untreated: Scarring, proctitis, eye complications, severe disease in immunocompromised people
- How common: Thousands of U.S. cases reported since 2022; primarily linked to sexual contact during outbreaks