What is MPOX? 

MPOX is a viral infection caused by the MPOX virus, which causes skin rash and flu-like symptoms. The disease is usually mild and heals on its own within a few weeks. People with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of developing a severe form of the disease. 

Risk Groups 

People at highest risk for MPOX are those who frequently travel to affected areas and have intimate relationships with new/multiple partners or who have close physical skin-to-skin contacts with an infected person (for example, sharing a bed). For specific travel advice regarding the affected countries, we recommend consulting the website of Foreign Affairs. 

Symptoms 

The most common symptoms are: 

  • Skin rash or blisters, especially on the face, hands, feet, eyes, or genitals 
  • Fever 
  • Headache 
  • Muscle pain 
  • Swollen lymph nodes 

Spread 

MPOX spreads primarily through: 

  • Direct contact (prolonged skin-to-skin or sexual) with someone with skin lesions. 
  • Contact with body fluids or mucous membranes of an infected person. In infected patients, we often find high concentrations of virus in the saliva and anus, but sometimes also in the sperm. 
  • Spread of saliva droplets. This is possible, but probably less efficient. 
  • (In theory) transmission via contaminated surfaces or linen (such as bedding or towels). 

The virus spreads most efficiently through sexual contact. Kissing may also pose a potential risk. 

It is important to emphasize that for the new variant (Clade Ib), there are still some scientific uncertainties about the course of the disease and its infectiousness. 

What to do if you have symptoms? 

If you experience symptoms or think you have been in contact with an infected person: 

  • Isolate yourself and stay at home 
  • Contact your (general) doctor by phone. When you contact your doctor, a medical evaluation will be conducted. If necessary, a test will be taken. This is done by taking swabs of any skin lesions. 

What to do if I have mpox? 

Go into home isolation until all skin lesions have dried up to prevent infecting others. This means: 

  • Stay at home: Only leave your house for essential matters such as doctor's appointments. If you need to go outside, wear a surgical face mask and cover your skin lesions, for example with long sleeves and long trousers. 
  • Stay in your room: When moving around the house or having contact with housemates, always wear a surgical mask. 
  • Use your own household items: Use only your personal items such as clothing, bedding, towels, and eating utensils. Never share these with other housemates to prevent spread. 
  • Avoid physical (sexual) contact: Refrain from any physical contact until the skin lesions have completely healed and all scabs have fallen off. Be aware that condoms alone do not provide complete protection against mpox. 
  • Avoid contact with animals: Keep distance from all animals, but be extra careful with rodents such as mice, rats, hamsters, and guinea pigs, as they may be susceptible to the infection. 
  • Inform contacts: Inform everyone you have had close contact with in the past three weeks. This allows them to be alert to any symptoms and take action if necessary. 

These measures help limit the spread of mpox and protect the health of others in your environment. 
 

Vaccination 

Given the limited impact of the disease and the low risk for the general population, general vaccination is not on the agenda. It is important to note that Clade Ib is a new variant and that scientific knowledge about it is constantly evolving. There are no indications suggesting that the current vaccine would not work against the new variant. The NITAG group within the Superior Health Council is considering the possibility of targeted vaccination of specific risk groups, taking into account scientific insights and the pros and cons. In case of a local outbreak in Belgium, secondary vaccination is possible thanks to a strategic vaccine stock (immediate vaccination after a high-risk contact).   

For additional information, we also refer you to the website of the Institute of Tropical Medicine.