How is Mpox Transmitted?

Mpox is spread through:

  • Direct contact with infected animals
  • Direct contact with infected persons including intimate and sexual contact with infected persons.
  • Contact with contaminated materials

The virus can be spread through sharing personal materials with infected persons, such as:

  • Towels
  • Clothing
  • Utensils
  • Bedding etc.

Additionally, it can be spread through contact with surfaces that have not been disinfected after use by infected persons.

The CDC classifies mpox into clade I and clade II. Both clades are transmitted in the same manner. 

Direct or close contact with infected persons may include the following 

  • Direct skin to skin contact with person with mpox
  • Contact with saliva, other respiratory secretions and body fluids. Fluids may be from lesions on the skin, anus, rectum or genitals.
  • Contact during oral, anal or vaginal intercourse or by touch
  • Contact via hugging, kissing or massage.

Can Mpox be transmitted from mother to child?

•Pregnant mothers can pass the virus to the fetus during pregnancy or to the newborn during and after birth.

When can a person spread Mpox?

•The virus is can be spread from the time the symptoms start to show until they fully heal.

•However, some people may spread the virus even before they start to show symptoms. 

N/B: The characteristic symptom of Mpox is the rash.

Ways in which Mpox can spread from infected Animals?

•Mpox can spread from animals to humans especially in mpox endemic regions such as West and Central Africa.

•Transmission occurs when there is direct contact with infected animals, their fluids, waste or from getting scratched or bitten by infected animals.