Monkeypox
We want to share some guidance and resources in response to the recent spread of Monkeypox.
This previously rare disease in the U.S. has seen a sharp rise in cases, especially in the MSM community (men who have sex with men). The CDC and health authorities across the country are closely monitoring outbreaks.
Monkeypox symptoms:
People with monkeypox get a rash that may be located on or near the genitals (penis, testicles, labia, and vagina) or anus (butthole) and could be on other areas like the hands, feet, chest, face, or mouth.
The rash will go through several stages, including scabs, before healing.
The rash can initially look like pimples or blisters and may be painful or itchy.
Other symptoms of monkeypox can include:
Fever
Chills
Swollen lymph nodes
Exhaustion
Muscle aches and backache
Headache
Respiratory symptoms (e.g. sore throat, nasal congestion, or cough)
You may experience all or only a few symptoms
Sometimes, people have flu-like symptoms before the rash.
Some people get a rash first, followed by other symptoms.
Others only experience a rash.
How long do monkeypox symptoms last?
Monkeypox symptoms usually start within 3 weeks of exposure to the virus. If someone has flu-like symptoms, they will usually develop a rash 1-4 days later.
Monkeypox can be spread from the time symptoms start until the rash has healed, all scabs have fallen off, and a fresh layer of skin has formed. The illness typically lasts 2-4 weeks.
Monkeypox can spread to anyone through close, personal, and/or skin-to-skin contact. There is a heightened potential for spread in the MSM community due to the close-knit nature of our interactions.
If you have any of the symptoms above for Monkeypox may be present and you should reach out to a healthcare provider and stay at home if they are.
For more information on Monkeypox, check out these resources:
You may also contact the AID Atlanta Info-line at 1-800-551-2728 for referrals or resource information.