Reading this you might be wondering, what is Mpox? Mpox is a rare but dangerous virus that primarily impacts the queer community. The virus is in the same family as smallpox but is less severe and transmissible.
However, the disease can spread from humans to animals, with over 50 cases recorded in Colorado to date. With the last mpox outbreak in 2022, Colorado’s Health Department wants to get ahead of a possible epidemic so that we don’t see another upswing in cases. Those who may have traveled outside the country to areas like Central or West Africa have a high risk of infection and should be sure to take the proper precautions.
Several counties and cities have recorded the disease in patients recently, including; Adams, Arapahoe, Boulder, Broomfield, Denver, Douglas, El Paso, Jefferson, Larimer, Mesa, and Pueblo counties. More than five people were hospitalized due to the virus. And while anyone can get Mpox, this year’s data shows a majority of current cases have occurred amongst men who have sex with men and in Hispanic communities.
So, what can you do to stay safe? To start, you can protect yourself with a free vaccine called Jynneos. Two doses give the best protection. Get your second dose even if it’s been a month or more since your first. Symptoms can include a new rash or bumps that may be painful or itchy. These can look like herpes, blisters, or acne. Some people may feel flu-like symptoms at first. If you think you may have these symptoms, please seek medical help.
Colorado Department of Health and Environment encourages those who have frequent sexual partners to get a vaccine or those living with HIV or were diagnosed with gonorrhea or syphilis in the past six months or so. Be sure to keep in contact with any partners, to communicate if symptoms appear later.
Photo courtesy of Colorado Department of Health and Environment
