What is it?

Monkeypox, or MPox, is a rare but potentially serious disease similar to smallpox but less severe. It is caused by the MPox virus.  It is particularly concerning for those in aged care facilities and those with weakened immune systems or underlying health conditions, as it can lead to severe complications such as pneumonia, brain inflammation and sepsis.  

What are the symptoms?

MPox illness is usually mild; people typically recover in a few weeks.  Symptoms of MPox infection can include

A distinctive rash, lesions (bumps that turn into pimples, blisters or sores and may burst to form ulcers or scabs)

Swollen lymph nodes

Fever

Headache

Muscle aches

Joint pain

Back pain

Chills

Exhaustion

The rash passes through 4 stages

Macular – flat, discoloured lesions

Papular – solid, raised lesions

Vesicular – fluid-filled lesions

Pustular – pus-filled lesions

Transmission

In most cases, the virus passes from person to person through

Close physical, intimate or sexual contact with someone who has MPox, via skin-to-skin contact

Close contact with rashes, blisters or sores on the skin

Body fluids, including respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing

Contaminated objects such as linen and towels

Diagnosis

The Doctor will make a diagnosis based on symptoms and history. The Doctor will order a swab to be sent to the laboratory.  The swab will be of either the rash, skin lesion surface and/or exudate, lesion crusts or roofs, or another site, such as the throat.  Laboratory confirmation will be obtained through either nucleic acid amplification testing (NAAT) or PCR, depending on national, territorial and local policy.

NB:   Appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) must be worn while collecting samples from patients suspected of MPox infection. This includes fluid repellent surgical mask, gloves, disposable fluid-resistant gown, and eye protection – face shields or goggles.

Outbreak Definition

An outbreak is defined as one person, resident, employee, or visitor with suspected or confirmed MPox.  An outbreak must be reported to the public health unit.

Commence a spreadsheet detailing the following

Names of the residents and employees who have symptoms

Date of onset of symptoms

Type of symptoms

When symptoms resolve