Posted 21 months ago in Trending
2 MIN READ – The Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) has been responding to the monkeypox (MPV) outbreak since the first identified case in Chicago in early June. As CDPH continuously learns more about MPV during this outbreak, please continue to look at their website for the most up to date information at Chicago.gov/monkeypox.
What is MPV (monkeypox virus)?
Monkeypox is a disease caused by the monkeypox virus. It is a viral zoonotic disease, meaning that it can spread from animals to humans. It can also spread between people.
How is it spread?
The main way it is currently spreading is through direct contact with a rash or sore on someone infected with MPV. It can also spread through clothing, bedding/linens, or other materials used by a person infected with MPV, or through respiratory secretions during prolonged, face-to-face contact (e.g. kissing).
What are the symptoms?
The most common symptoms of MPV are a rash or sores that look like pimples or blisters that can appear anywhere on the body. Some people also have flu-like symptoms including fever, chills, fatigue, and swollen lymph nodes.
What is the risk level of spread for work settings, on public transportation, or in schools?
MPV is not spread through casual conversations. You do not become infected by being around infected persons unless you have prolonged close contact or share bedding or clothing with someone who has MPV. At this time, the risk for spread in the workplace, on public transportation, or in school settings is low. CDPH strongly recommends if you have symptoms, you should separate from others and avoid sharing personal items, call your doctor and ask to get tested immediately, and notify your close contacts if you test positive for MPV.
Is there a vaccine for MPV?
Yes, the MPV vaccine (JYNNEOS) is available from the national stockpile and federal partners distribute it to states and cities based on population and MPV case counts. As more doses arrive in Chicago, appointment availability and information can be found on CDPH's website. Learn more.
CDPH is prioritizing those at highest risk: any individual who has had close physical contact with someone diagnosed with MPV or whose sexual partner was diagnosed with MPV in the last 14 days.
In addition, people who meet all the following conditions are eligible for vaccination:
- Gay, bisexual, and other (cis or trans) men who have sex with men (MSM).
- Had multiple or anonymous sex partners, sex at a social or sexual venue, or sex in exchange for money or goods within the last 14 days.
As vaccine supply increases, more individuals will become eligible for vaccine. Updated Chicago case totals can be found on the CDPH MPV Dashboard.
