Disease reference · Medical information
Mpox — what it is
Mpox is a viral illness that usually causes a rash and flu-like symptoms. Most cases are mild, it can be serious for some people, and it is treatable.
Last reviewed 2026-10-07 · Based on WHO / CDC
Overview
Mpox is caused by the mpox virus, which belongs to the same virus family as the smallpox virus. It was first identified in humans and is found in parts of Central and West Africa, with cases also detected elsewhere through travel and close contact.
With good care most people recover, but some — such as young children, pregnant people and those with weakened immune systems — are at higher risk of severe illness.
Symptoms
Symptoms often begin with fever, headache, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes and tiredness.
A rash or sores then develop, often starting on the face and spreading; the lesions progress through stages before scabbing and healing.
How it spreads
Mpox spreads mainly through close, often skin-to-skin contact with an infected person, their rash, or contaminated surfaces and bedding.
It can also spread from contact with infected animals in affected regions. Prolonged face-to-face contact can spread respiratory droplets.
Prevention & care
Vaccination is recommended for people at higher risk of exposure, and antiviral medicines are available for severe cases. Most care is supportive while the illness runs its course.
Avoid close contact with people who have mpox and with possibly contaminated items. See a health professional if you think you have been exposed.
Questions
Is mpox related to plague?
Is mpox treatable?
Sources
Official / WHO / health authorities (Tier 1)
Tier 3 sources are treated as unverified leads and are never used as the basis for figures.