Mpox, an infection caused by the monkeypox virus (MPXV), has raised significant public health concerns due to its transmission modes and symptomatology. The infection, primarily known for its distinct rash and flu-like symptoms, can manifest within 21 days of exposure. Symptoms include chills, fatigue, fever, headache, muscle aches, rash, and respiratory issues. The rash typically appears on the hands, feet, chest, face, mouth, or near the genitals. As the world navigates through various health crises, understanding mpox's transmission and prevention becomes crucial.
The virus commonly spreads through intimate or skin-to-skin contact. It can also be transmitted via contaminated objects or surfaces, such as shared bedsheets. Items that come into contact with mpox lesions or bodily fluids pose significant transmission risks. Consequently, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises wearing masks for those diagnosed with mpox, people in close contact with them, and healthcare workers caring for mpox patients.
According to Andrew Noymer, PhD, associate professor of population health and disease prevention at the University of California, Irvine:
"I would mask, just as I would in a COVID case."
Mpox is contagious from the onset of the rash until it fully heals. While it can be transmitted during sexual activity—evidenced by the 2024 outbreak predominantly affecting men who have sex with men—it is not exclusively a sexually transmitted infection (STI). Mpox can also be contracted outside of sexual activities. Infected animals can transmit the virus; however, no animals in the United States currently carry mpox. Prolonged close contact heightens the likelihood of respiratory transmission, especially during intimate interactions.
Healthcare professionals recommend protective measures when dealing with mpox cases. Luis Ostrovsky, MD, an infectious disease specialist at Memorial Hermann Hospital in Houston, Texas, emphasizes:
"If you're taking care of a patient that had [mpox], we would require masking with N95s and gowns, gloves, eye protection, etc. Because again, we're dealing with body fluids, and we may be exposed to aerosols in close proximity."
Dr. Ostrovsky also notes the limited necessity for community-wide masking:
"But at this point, I don't think there's enough evidence for requiring masking in the community for it."
Despite this stance, caregivers are advised to consider using N95 or surgical masks to mitigate transmission risks. The CDC reiterates the protective benefits of masks:
"Wearing a mask can help protect you from many diseases, including monkeypox."
Transmission during sexual activity is significant; however, mpox's spread through respiratory droplets remains minimal without prolonged exposure. Dr. Ostrovsky explains:
"Droplets by their size tend to travel no more than six feet because of gravity."
Thus, while respiratory transmission is less common, it cannot be entirely dismissed under conditions of prolonged exposure.
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