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Mpox

Last updated March 14, 2024.

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Mpox cases are increasing in Colorado

The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment sent a text and email reminder to more than 4,000 Coloradans whose records show they may be due for their second dose of the mpox vaccine. Two doses of the vaccine provide the best protection from mpox, even if it’s been longer than four weeks since your first dose. You can check your vaccine record online.

A free vaccine can prevent mpox. Anyone who thinks they may be at risk of exposure to mpox can get vaccinated – no ID, insurance, or payment needed. This vaccine can be given between layers of the skin (intradermally) or in the fatty tissue under the skin (subcutaneously). You can ask to get the vaccine in a way that will not cause a scar (subcutaneously).

Know the symptoms of mpox:

  • New rash or bumps on the skin
  • Flu-like symptoms, like fever, chills, and muscle aches

If you have symptoms and may have been exposed, ask a health care provider about testing and treatment – even if you are vaccinated against mpox. Mpox testing is available across the state.

Anyone can get mpox. The virus does not discriminate against any group. Based on recent data, men who have sex with men may be at higher risk for contracting mpox. Transgender women and gender-diverse people may also be at higher risk.

 

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Mpox is a virus in the orthopox family of viruses, which includes smallpox. Mpox can cause serious illness.

People with mpox often get a rash or bumps that may be located on the hands, feet, chest, face, mouth, or near the genitals. They may also have flu-like symptoms, including fever, headache, and exhaustion. 

People with a new rash or bumps who think they may have been exposed should get tested for mpox, even if they have been vaccinated against mpox or have already had mpox. Treatment is available for people at higher risk or those with severe disease.

Mpox can be transmitted from person to person when someone who has mpox has close contact with someone else. Close contact can mean touching the sores, bumps, or lesions of someone who has mpox. Close contact includes sex. Brief interactions without physical contact are unlikely to result in getting the virus.

A vaccine called Jynneos can help prevent mpox. People who have recently been exposed to mpox or are at higher risk for exposure should get vaccinated.

Number of human cases

202220232024
4051321

 

This table is updated weekly on Wednesdays by 4 p.m.