Maplewood, NJ
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Mpox is a rare viral infection that does not usually cause serious illness. However, if left untreated it can result in further illness and hospitalization. Mpox is a new virus in the United States, and public health officials are closely monitoring it.
Mpox spreads through close physical contact, meaning that anyone has the potential to contract mpox. However, based on the current outbreak, certain populations are more at-risk of mpox infection than others. This includes:
- Individuals who have traveled to areas that are currently reporting mpox cases
- Men who have sex with men (MSM)
- Healthcare providers
- People with weakened immune systems
Individuals can protect themselves from the spread of mpox by avoiding skin-to-skin contact with anyone who has a rash or other mpox-related symptoms. Individuals should also ask their sexual partners whether they have a rash or other symptoms consistent with the mpox virus.
Individuals who have been exposed to mpox or who experience mpox symptoms should contact their healthcare provider. All suspected or confirmed cases should be immediately reported to the Health Department at (973) 762-8120, x4300. If you are a known contact of someone who has tested positive in the past 14 days, you can also contact the Health Department for assistance in obtaining a vaccine.
For additional information, including information on where other high risk individuals can obtain the vaccine, please visit the NJ Department of Health. Details on what to expect after receiving the vaccine can be found here.