Mpox Myths vs. Facts: Unraveling Truths About Symptoms, Transmission, and Protection
Separate fact from fiction with trusted steps to recognize warning signs and stay safe.
Mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) continues to generate headlines and public concern. Amidst rising awareness, numerous myths and misconceptions have emerged about how mpox spreads, who can get it, how severe it is, and what steps you can take to protect yourself. This comprehensive guide addresses the most common myths with clear, factual information so you can stay informed and safe.
This Article Covers
- What mpox is and its history
- Symptoms and what mpox does to the body
- Transmission: how mpox spreads and how it doesn’t
- Prevention: vaccines, hygiene, and practical steps
- Treatment and prognosis
- Frequently asked questions about mpox
Understanding Mpox: The Facts
Mpox is an infectious illness caused by a virus in the same family as smallpox, though it tends to produce milder symptoms. Despite recent global outbreaks, mpox is not a novel disease. The first human case occurred over 50 years ago, and its symptoms, transmission, and prevention have been extensively documented. Yet, confusing or outdated information remains widespread—in part due to persistent myths.
Myth #1: Mpox is a New Disease
Fact: Mpox has been known since the late 1950s. The virus was first identified in 1958 in monkeys kept for research. The first human case was reported in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of Congo, a time when smallpox was still endemic. Prior to 2022, most mpox cases occurred in parts of central and western Africa, or in travelers returning from affected regions. Recent outbreaks have increased global awareness, but the disease itself is not newly discovered.
Myth #2: The Only Mpox Symptom is a Rash
Fact: While a blistering rash is the most well-known feature of mpox, it’s just part of a broader symptom profile. Common symptoms include:
- Fever
- Headache
- Swollen lymph nodes (lymphadenopathy)
- Muscle aches and back pain
- Fatigue or intense lack of energy
- Chills
- A sore throat, cough, or congestion
- Skin lesions or rash: often starts on the face, hands, and feet before spreading to other areas
The rash typically progresses from flat spots to raised bumps, then to blisters and pustules, before forming scabs and healing. Symptoms can last two to four weeks, and people remain infectious until all scabs fall off and a layer of fresh skin forms underneath.
Myth #3: Mpox is an Airborne Virus
Fact: Unlike respiratory viruses such as COVID-19, mpox does not spread easily through the air. The main routes of transmission are:
- Direct, close physical contact with the infectious rash, scabs, or bodily fluids of a person with mpox
- Touching items or surfaces (such as bed linens, towels, or clothing) that have come in contact with infectious material
- Prolonged face-to-face contact: In rare cases, respiratory secretions during extended close contact (such as living with or caring for someone with mpox) can transmit the virus
The CDC and experts advise that the virus can survive on surfaces for days to weeks, so it is important to clean and disinfect areas and items contaminated by an infected person. However, simply being in the same room as someone with mpox or walking past them is not considered a significant risk for airborne transmission.
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Myth #4: Mpox Only Affects Certain Populations
Fact: Anyone can get mpox if exposed to the virus. Early in the 2022 outbreak, cases were primarily reported among men who have sex with men. However, mpox does not discriminate by sexual orientation, gender, age, or ethnicity. Stigmatizing any group undermines public health efforts because it can discourage people from seeking help or following precautions.
- Mpox spreads wherever there is close, personal, or intimate contact
- All communities are at risk if exposed
Stigma diminishes trust and impedes effective responses—open, factual communication is essential to stopping any infectious disease.
Myth #5: Mpox is a Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD)
Fact: While mpox can be spread during sexual activity due to close skin-to-skin contact, it is not classified as a sexually transmitted disease. Any situation that involves direct or intimate contact—including but not limited to sex—can lead to transmission:
- Hugging, kissing, or cuddling
- Sharing utensils, drinks, or items with an infected person
- Laundry, towels, and bedding exposed to lesions
You do not need to have sexual contact to contract mpox. Calling it an STD is misleading and may prevent people from understanding their real risks.
Myth #6: Mpox Cannot Be Treated
Fact: Most mpox infections resolve on their own within a few weeks without specific treatment. However, medical support can help relieve symptoms, prevent complications, and treat severe cases, especially in people at higher risk (such as those with weakened immune systems, children, pregnant people, or severe disease):
- Pain relievers and fever reducers for symptom control
- Vigilant wound care and prevention of secondary infections
- Specialty antivirals, such as tecovirimat (TPOXX), may be used in certain cases
Supportive care is generally sufficient for most patients. Consult a healthcare provider if you think you may have mpox or are experiencing severe symptoms.
Myth #7: The Mpox Vaccine is Widely Available to Everyone
Fact: There is a safe and effective vaccine (JYNNEOS) for mpox, but it is currently recommended mainly for people who are at higher risk:
- People with known exposure to mpox
- Certain healthcare workers and laboratory staff working with orthopoxviruses
- People who have had multiple sexual partners or whose partners are at increased risk
- Sex workers or those with certain occupational exposure risks
The vaccine is usually administered in two doses, 28 days apart. If you have already had mpox, you do not need vaccination. Booster shots are not currently recommended for the general population.
Myth #8: Mpox is as Dangerous as Smallpox or Ebola
Fact: Although mpox and smallpox viruses belong to the same family, mpox is far less lethal and less easily transmissible. Mpox’s fatality rate is much lower, and most people recover fully. Though complications can occur, particularly in vulnerable individuals, mpox is rarely fatal and does not wreak the type of severe systemic illness associated with smallpox or Ebola virus.
To compare:
| Disease | Fatality Rate | Severity |
|---|---|---|
| Mpox | Less than 1% (current outbreaks largely non-fatal) | Mild to moderate, most recover fully |
| Smallpox | ~30% | Severe, eradicated globally |
| Ebola | ~25–90% (varies by outbreak) | Severe, often fatal without urgent care |
Myth #9: Mpox Is Easy to Catch
Fact: Mpox does not spread as easily as respiratory viruses like COVID-19 or the flu. Brief, casual interactions are unlikely to transmit the virus. You primarily need close, direct, or intimate contact during the infectious period to be at risk.
- Transmission is most likely through broken skin, mucous membranes (such as mouth, eyes, or genitals), or prolonged face-to-face exposure
- Indirect contact (sharing surfaces or objects) presents some risk but requires contaminated material and usually extended contact
Everyday activities like shopping, walking by others in public, or working in an office do not put you at risk unless you are exposed to contaminated surfaces or infected bodily fluids.
Prevention: How to Protect Yourself and Others
With public understanding and simple precautions, the risk of mpox can be managed. Key prevention strategies include:
- Good hand hygiene: Wash hands frequently with soap and water or use hand sanitizer
- Avoid close contact with anyone who looks ill or has symptoms suggestive of mpox
- Disinfect shared surfaces and laundry after potential exposure
- Use gloves and practice care when helping someone who has mpox
- Heed public health alerts and get vaccinated if you are at higher risk
What to Do If You Think You Have Mpox
- Self-isolate immediately to prevent spreading the virus
- Contact your healthcare provider for testing and advice
- Avoid close contact with others (including household members and pets)
- Cover lesions with clothing or bandages, and wear a mask if around others
- Follow medical and public health guidance until fully recovered
Frequently Asked Questions About Mpox
Q: Is mpox the same as smallpox or chickenpox?
A: No. Mpox, smallpox, and chickenpox are caused by different viruses. While mpox and smallpox are both orthopoxviruses, mpox is far less severe. Chickenpox is caused by the varicella-zoster virus and presents differently.
Q: Can mpox be spread through the air like COVID-19?
A: Mpox is not primarily airborne. Close, prolonged face-to-face contact or skin-to-skin contact is required for transmission. Airborne spread is considered very unlikely.
Q: How long is a person with mpox contagious?
A: People with mpox are considered contagious from the onset of symptoms through the scab stage until all scabs have fallen off and a new layer of skin has formed, usually around two to four weeks.
Q: Can I get mpox from pets or animals?
A: Human-to-human transmission is currently the most important risk, but the virus can infect various mammals. Pet rodents (such as hamsters or gerbils) could potentially contract the virus if exposed to an infected person; proper precautions are advised.
Q: Does everyone need the mpox vaccine?
A: Vaccination is advised for those at higher risk based on exposure or occupational guidelines. It is not recommended for the general public at this time, but that guidance may evolve with public health needs.
Q: Is mpox fatal?
A: In current outbreaks, mpox is rarely fatal. Most people recover fully, usually within weeks. Severe complications can occur, particularly in immunocompromised individuals, young children, and pregnant people.
Key Takeaways
- Mpox is not a new disease; it has a well-established history with effective prevention and treatment strategies available.
- Symptoms go beyond a rash—look for fever, headaches, swollen lymph nodes, and fatigue as well.
- Mpox is not airborne and does not require sexual transmission; close or intimate physical contact is the typical route.
- Anyone can contract mpox—stigma and misinformation hinder effective responses.
- Vaccines and supportive care exist; contact a healthcare provider if you are concerned about symptoms or exposure risk.
Staying informed, practicing good hygiene, and following public health recommendations are the most effective strategies to protect yourself and your community from mpox and all infectious diseases.
References
- https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/health/a40818469/mpox-myths-facts/
- https://dhcd.org/media/2088/Dispelling%20myths%20about%20Monkey%20Pox%20705%20%20(1).pdf
- https://www.myhealth.va.gov/mhv-portal-web/ss20220927-monkeypox-myths-and-facts
- https://www.cnet.com/health/medical/monkeypox-top-5-myths-debunked/
- https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/health-news/understanding-monkeypox-debunking-myths-and-misinformation/articleshow/113183887.cms
- https://www.mdanderson.org/cancerwise/10-monkeypox-myths-you-should-not-believe.h00-159542112.html
- https://www.fhi360.org/articles/essential-facts-mpox/
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10589906/
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