Mpox
Cases in Kansas
Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, case numbers are updated weekly on Wednesdays. As of March 15, 2023, there are 50 cases of mpox in the state of Kansas. The risk of mpox spreading in Kansas remains low at this time.
Vaccines in Kansas
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) does not recommend widespread vaccination at this time; however, vaccination may be recommended for people who may be at higher risk. Some county health departments and health care providers in Kansas have vaccine available. Find an mpox vaccine provider.
Learn More About Mpox
What is Mpox?
Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a rare disease from the smallpox virus family. Symptoms are similar to but milder than smallpox. Mpox is rarely fatal; however, symptoms can be painful and can leave permanent scarring. The following populations are most susceptible to serious illness from mpox:
- People with weakened immune systems
- Children under 8 years
- People who are pregnant or breastfeeding
- People with a history of eczema
Learn steps you can take to prevent mpox. If someone in your household is sick they should isolate at home. If they have an active rash or other symptoms, they should be in a separate room away from people and pets when possible.
What are the symptoms of mpox?
Symptoms can include any of the following. A rash may occur first. Some may only experience a rash.
- A rash that looks like pimples or blisters
- Fever
- Headache
- Muscle aches & backache
- Chills
- Exhaustion
What should I do if I have symptoms of mpox?
- See a health care provider if you notice a new or unexplained rash or other symptoms.
- Avoid close contact, including intimate contact until a health care provider examines you.
- Avoid close contact with pets or other animals until a health care provider examines you.
- If waiting for test results, follow these precautions as outlined.
- If positive, stay isolated until your rash has healed, all scabs have fallen off, and a fresh layer of skin has formed.
How does mpox spread?
People who do not have symptoms cannot spread the virus to others. For those who have symptoms, mpox can be spread from the time symptoms start until the rash has fully healed and a fresh layer of skin has formed. The illness typically lasts 2-4 weeks.
Mpox spreads in many different ways:
- Person-to-person through direct contact with the infectious rash, scabs, or body fluids. It also can be spread by respiratory secretions during prolonged, face-to-face contact, or during intimate physical contact, such as kissing, cuddling, or sex. Pregnant people can spread the virus to their fetus through the placenta.
- By touching items such as clothing or linens that previously touched the infectious rash or body fluids
- From infected animals, either by being scratched or bitten by the animal or by eating meat or using products from an infected animal.
Could my pet get mpox?
Mpox is zoonotic, meaning it can spread between animals and people; however, the CDC does not currently believe that mpox poses a high risk to pets. KDHE still recommends that people with symptoms avoid interacting with animals and find someone else to take care of their pets while they recover. Learn more about mpox in animals.
What treatments & vaccines are available for mpox?
There are no treatments specifically for mpox virus infections; however, mpox and smallpox viruses are genetically similar, which means that antiviral drugs and vaccines developed to protect against smallpox may be used to treat and prevent mpox virus infections. Learn more about antivirals, vaccines, and other options.
How can clinicians or pharmacists request Tecovirimat?
KDHE has a limited supply of oral tecovirimat, also known as TPOXX. Clinicians should refer to the CDC tecovirimat treatment guidelines to determine if TPOXX is appropriate. In addition, CDC has published mpox pain management and supportive care recommendations. Clinicians and pharmacists may request oral TPOXX by contacting the 24/7 KDHE Epidemiology Hotline at 877-427-7317 option 5.