Monkeypox is a severe acute illness caused by infection with the monkeypox virus. Monkeypox virus is part of the same family of viruses as smallpox, but it is not related to chickenpox. Monkeypox symptoms are similar to smallpox symptoms, but milder, and can include:

• Fever
• Headache
• Muscle aches and backache
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Chills
• Exhaustion
• A rash that can look like pimples or blisters that appears on the face, inside the mouth, and on other parts of the body, like the hands, feet, chest, genitals, or anus.

Monkeypox virus can spread when a person comes in direct contact with an infected animal, infected person or materials contaminated with the virus via infectious lesions, scabs or bodily fluids. The virus can also pass between a mother and fetus.

The incubation period for monkeypox is usually 7 to 14 days but can range from 5 to 21 days. The rash typically begins within 5 days of the first symptoms. If you experience any of the above symptoms, avoid close contact with others and contact ACCHD immediately.

For an up-to-date monkeypox case count, click HERE.

For more detailed information on transmission, symptoms, prevention and treatments for monkeypox, click HERE.