Monkeypox

Since May, 2022, clusters of monkeypox cases have been reported in several countries that don’t normally have monkeypox. Monkeypox is largely spread through close physical contact.  At the moment, most of the known monkeypox cases are among men who have sex with men. But any person, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation, can acquire and spread monkeypox. In late July, two children in the U.S. were diagnosed with monkeypox.

Information on U.S. Monkeypox Outbreak including cases in Maryland.

Monkeypox infections are typically not severe; symptoms are usually similar to the flu with a rash and resolve within 2-4 weeks. More severe infections or infections in high-risk individuals may be treated with antiviral medicines.

While COVID-19 passed easily from person to person, monkeypox does not spread as easily between people. Monkeypox transmission typically requires skin-to-skin contact, direct contact with body fluids, or prolonged face-to-face contact; this includes sexual contact. It can also be spread by touching items like towels or sheets that touched an infectious rash or body fluids.

To prevent monkeypox:

• Avoid close, skin to skin contact with the monkeypox rash.
  • Do not touch the rash or scabs of person with monkeypox.
  • Do not kiss, hug, cuddle or have sex with someone with monkeypox.
  • Do not share eating utensils or cups.
• Do not handle or touch the bedding, towels, or clothing of a sick person.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, especially after contact with sick people.
• Social Gatherings, Safer Sex, and Monkeypox

If you think you have been exposed to monkeypox or may have monkeypox, talk with your healthcare provider as soon as possible. 

Smallpox vaccination may be used for monkeypox prevention in some close contacts and healthcare workers. The supply of vaccines for monkeypox is extremely limited at this time. Learn more about monkeypox vaccination options at Considerations for Monkeypox Vaccination.

For more information on monkeypox in Maryland, visit the Maryland Department of Health’s Human Monkeypox page.