People with mpox often get a rash that may be located on hands, feet, chest, face, or mouth or near the genitals. Sometimes people have flu-like symptoms before the rash, while some people get a rash first, followed by other symptoms. Others only experience a rash. You can find more information about mpox symptoms on the CDC website.

If you have any symptoms of mpox, talk to your healthcare provider, even if you don’t think you had contact with someone who has mpox.

Unlike COVID-19, which spreads easily through the air, this virus is spreading mostly through close, intimate contact with someone who has mpox. You can find more information on the CDC website.

You can find tips for protecting yourself on the CDC website, including how to lower your risk during sex, at social gatherings such as parties and festivals, and if you are exposed to someone with mpox.

The CDC recommends vaccination for people who have been exposed to mpox and people who are at higher risk of being exposed to mpox.

If you believe you have been exposed, call your healthcare provider. If you do not have a healthcare provider and live in Rhode Island, call the Rhode Island Department of Health at (401) 222-2577 to coordinate care or see their website for a list of clinics offering vaccination. If you live outside of Rhode Island, contact your local Department of Health.

You can find more information on monkeypox vaccination on the CDC website and the Rhode Island Department of Health website.

The CDC supplies vaccine to each state for administration. Your state’s Department of Health coordinates the availability of vaccines and administers them. There should be no cost to you for the vaccine. Currently, the vaccine is not available through pharmacies or doctors’ offices, but we will provide updated information as things change. 

If you believe you have been exposed to mpox, call your healthcare provider. If you do not have a healthcare provider and live in Rhode Island, call the Department of Health at (401) 222-2577 to coordinate care or see their website for a list of clinics offering vaccination. If you live outside of Rhode Island, contact your local Department of Health.

Mpox and smallpox viruses are genetically similar, which means that antiviral drugs developed for smallpox may be used to treat mpox infections. Antivirals, such as tecovirimat (TPOXX), may be recommended for some people who are more likely to get severely ill, like patients with weakened immune systems. Your state’s Department of Health coordinates the availability of these antivirals and administers them.

If you have symptoms of mpox, you should talk to your healthcare provider, even if you don’t think you had contact with someone who has mpox. If you do not have a healthcare provider and live in Rhode Island, call the Department of Health at (401) 222-2577 to coordinate care. If you live outside of Rhode Island, contact your local Department of Health.