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Don’t panic. Yes, the World Health Organization has again declared mpox a global health emergency, but the latest outbreak is limited to the Democratic Republic of the Congo and its neighbors. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that the risk of mpox, previously known as monkeypox, is very low in the United States, and vaccines are available that should protect against the variant now spreading in Africa. The CDC recommends two doses of the Jynneos vaccine for the best protection for those most at risk.
Am I at risk for mpox?
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Unless you come in direct contact with an infected person, you are at little risk of developing mpox, according to health officials.
But you can take steps to prevent getting mpox, according to the CDC’s recommendations:
- Do not touch the rash or scabs of a person with mpox.
- Do not kiss, hug, cuddle or have sex with someone with mpox.
- Do not share eating utensils or cups with a person with mpox.
- Do not handle or touch the bedding, towels or clothing of a person with mpox.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, especially before eating or touching your face and after you use the bathroom.
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