Mpox

Mpox is a rare disease caused by the mpox virus (also known as the monkeypox virus or MPXV). The mpox virus is similar to the virus that causes smallpox, but it causes a different illness. Most people with mpox get better on their own within a few weeks, but some people can become seriously ill. The risk of catching mpox in Wales is currently low. A small number of cases of mpox have been reported in the UK since 2022. 

People who have close and intimate contact with those in the GBMSM community who are at high risk of mpox may also have the vaccine. This includes people of any gender or sexual orientation.  

Take action: If you think you’re at risk, book an appointment with your sexual health service.   

For more information about sexual health, including advice and testing in your area, visit the Sexual Health Wales website.

A list of sexual health services across Wales can be found on the NHS 111 Wales website.

How does mpox spread?

The mpox virus needs close contact to spread between people. It can spread through: 

• close physical contact with mpox lesions (open sores) or scabs (during sex, kissing, cuddling or holding hands)  
• close physical contact with bodily fluids (such as saliva, snot or mucus), including during sexual contact, and 
• contact with bedding, clothing or towels used by someone with mpox.  

Mpox may also spread through coughing, sneezing or breathing near someone. However, there is limited evidence for this.  

What are the symptoms of mpox?

Symptoms of mpox (see below) usually start within five to 21 days of being infected. However, not everyone who has mpox gets all these symptoms. Although most people recover on their own within a few weeks, some can become seriously ill. 

The initial symptoms may include: 

• a fever 
• a headache 
• flu-like symptoms (joint pain, muscle and backache, shivering and tiredness), and 
• swollen glands in the neck, armpits, or groin. 

A rash usually appears one to five days after a fever starts.  

• The rash may start on the face or in the genital area. 
• It can then spread to other parts of the body. 

The mpox rash goes through several stages before forming scabs which fall off. 

Mpox can continue to spread to other people until the scabs have completely healed. The rash of mpox may sometimes look like other diseases, such as chickenpox. 

For more information about the symptoms of mpox, visit the NHS 111 Wales website.

Who is at higher risk of severe illness from mpox?

Mpox is usually mild, and most people recover within a few weeks without treatment. The following people are at higher risk of severe disease from mpox.  

• Children  
• Pregnant women  
• People with a very weak immune system  

What are the different clades of mpox?

Clades are groups of the virus that are slightly different from each other. There are two main clades of the mpox virus – Clade 1 and Clade 2. Clade 2 usually causes a milder illness and was the cause of the outbreak that began in the UK in 2022.  

What can I do to protect myself and others from mpox?

If you are eligible for the vaccine, it will help protect yourself and others. You should also: 

• wash your hands regularly with soap and water or use hand sanitiser 
• avoid sex and close contact if you have symptoms 
• avoid sharing bedding or towels with anyone who may have mpox, and 
• watch for symptoms for three weeks after travelling to countries where mpox is present. 

Learn more

If you would like to learn more about the vaccine, or the disease they protect against, a number of information resources are available to help.

You can also call NHS 111 or your GP practice for advice if you have any questions.