An Update on Mpox
Harvard University Health Services (HUHS) continues to monitor the rise in mpox cases which prompted the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United States government to issue health emergency declarations. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), thousands in the U.S. have contracted the illness, including many cases in Massachusetts. This is an evolving situation.
Students and other HUHS patients seeking vaccine referral or evaluation for suspected mpox infection or exposure should contact HUHS at (617) 495-5711 for phone assessment and instructions.
What Are the Symptoms?
Mpox symptoms include a pimple or blister-like rash as well as fever, fatigue, and swollen lymph nodes. The CDC has examples of these rashes and blisters on their website.
How Is Mpox Transmitted?
The virus does not spread through a casual interaction like hugging. It is spread through close, personal, often skin-to-skin contact. Direct skin-to-skin contact can happen during intimate contact. People who do not have symptoms are not considered infectious.
In this current outbreak, many of the cases are among social networks of people who self-identify as gay or bisexual and other men who have sex with men. As noted above, intimate contact (kissing, cuddling, and sex) is one route of transmission. Other modes of transmission include direct contact with infectious rashes, scabs, or body fluids and touching items (linens and clothing) previously touched by infectious rashes or body fluids. More on the illness can be found on Mass General Brigham’s mpox webpage.
How Can I Reduce the Risk of Contracting Mpox?
At this time, the risk of mpox in the United States is believed to be low. However, you can reduce your risk of contracting the virus by:
- Avoiding close contact with people who are infected with mpox or their personal belongings, such as their bedding or laundry.
- Washing your hands often and thoroughly.
- Wearing a mask and gloves or other protection when caring for someone who has mpox or symptoms of the disease.
Additionally, those who have multiple or anonymous sex partners may be at increased risk of contracting mpox. Limiting your number of sex partners may reduce your exposure risk. Learn about mpox and sexual health here.
Is There a Vaccine?
Yes. If you are at increased risk of contracting mpox, the JYNNEOS vaccine (also known as Imvamune or Imvanex) is available via the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH). The vaccine is administered in two doses, 28 days (about 4 weeks) apart although limited supply might cause MDPH to recommend delaying the second dose. In order to obtain the vaccine, a health care provider will need to perform a risk and exposure assessment. Once the provider confirms your eligibility, you can make your own appointment.
Please be aware that there is currently a limited supply of JYNNEOS. Vaccination is prioritized for individuals at the highest risk of exposure to mpox.
What Happens If I Test Positive?
If you test positive, notify HUHS. Additionally, if you have had known exposure, do not wait for symptoms to start before notifying HUHS.
Persons infected with mpox should isolate until all skin lesions have resolved, the scabs have fallen off, and a fresh layer of intact skin has formed. The length of isolation will vary from patient to patient and may last 21 days (about 3 weeks) or more.
If a member of the Harvard community who lives off campus tests positive for mpox, they should isolate in their home. If you live on campus, HUHS will work with you and your School/Unit to manage your isolation.
People infected with the virus often have a mild disease that does not require treatment. There are no mpox-specific treatments, but antivirals—such as tecovirimat (TPOXX)—may be recommended for people who are more likely to get severely ill. People with weakened immune systems, children under eight years of age, people with a history of skin disorders like eczema, and people who are pregnant or breastfeeding may be more likely to get seriously ill. If you become infected with mpox and meet criteria for antiviral treatment, your health care provider may recommend TPOXX.