Monkeypox Virus (MPV)
en EspañolThe Center for Health and Counseling and Salt Lake Community College are closely monitoring the health situation surrounding the current monkeypox outbreak and the potential impact on the campus community. We will update this page as new information becomes available.
MPV is a rare disease caused by a virus. Prior to 2022, MPV had been mainly reported in people living in Central and West Africa. The virus is found in rodents but can spread to infect humans.
The risk of MPV in Salt Lake County is low, but the SLCC campus community should be familiar with the symptoms, monitor their health, and avoid skin-to-skin contact with others who have flu like symptoms, a rash, or skin sores.
Symptoms of MPV
- Rash that looks like pimples or blisters, may start out as a firm bump and then become a fluid filled blister
- Fever (usually high and above 100.4° F or 38° C)
- Headache
- Muscle/body aches
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Chills
- Fatigue/Exhaustion
How does MPV spread?
Monkey Pox spreads through close, personal, often skin-to-skin contact with monkeypox rash, scabs, or body fluids from a person with monkeypox. Less frequently, it can spread through prolonged close contact with respiratory secretions, fabrics (clothing, bedding, or towels) used by someone with monkeypox.
MPV can spread from the time symptoms begin until the rash lesions have completely healed, and a fresh layer of skin has formed. The length of illness can be two to four weeks. Most people will completely recover without any treatment, except for fluids and rest. A person without symptoms cannot spread MPV.
How do I protect myself from monkeypox?
- Avoid close, skin-to-skin contact with people who have a rash that looks like monkeypox
- Do not touch the rash or scabs of a person with monkeypox
- Do not kiss, hug, cuddle, or have sex with someone with monkeypox
- Avoid contact with objects and materials that a person with monkeypox has used
- Do not share eating utensils or cups with a person with monkeypox
- Do not handle or touch the bedding, towels, or clothing of a person with monkeypox
- Wash your hands often
- Wash your hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer
Is there a vaccine for monkey pox?
Monkeypox vaccine is currently available only to people who meet specific criteria. Vaccine eligibility and administration is currently determined by your county health department. The Center for Health and Counseling does NOT have monkeypox vaccine available. If you live outside of SL County and feel you may be eligible for the MPV vaccine, please contact your local health department.
How is monkey pox diagnosed?
MPV is diagnosed in a health clinic by swabbing any lesion and sending to a lab for PCR testing. The Center for Health and Counseling can test lesions for MPV. If you feel you have ANY concerns or symptoms of monkey pox, call the CHC at 801-957-4268 for a phone evaluation.
I have monkey pox. Is there any treatment available? How do I protect others?
The CDC has a great resource for frequently asked questions. Most people will fully recover from monkey pox with supportive treatment (rest, fluids, over the counter pain relievers). People who have severe illness from monkey pox or who are immunocompromised may receive antiviral medication. This medication is currently being controlled and approved by the SL County Health Department and the Centers for Disease Control. The CHC cannot prescribe antiviral treatment for monkey pox.