For the latest information on mpox, see case counts from the CDC or local updates, including vaccine eligibility, from Public Health Madison & Dane County.
In the United States, as of September 12, there are 21,985 confirmed cases of mpox. 56 of these cases have been confirmed in Wisconsin.
Mpox (previously known as monkeypox) is rare but the disease can be serious in some people. Symptoms include:
- new, unexplained rash that develops into hard, round, fluid or pus-filled skin lesions
- fever
- chills
- swollen lymph nodes
- muscle aches
- headache
- exhaustion
The virus is transmitted through prolonged exposure to respiratory droplets; sustained skin-to-skin contact; and contact with anything that has been contaminated with the fluids or sores of a person with mpox, like shared clothing or bedding. Most people recover in two to four weeks without treatment.
The risk of mpox remains low in Dane County but members of the campus community should familiarize themselves with the symptoms, monitor their health, and avoid skin-to-skin contact with others who have a rash that look like blisters or pimples. People with suspected or known exposure to someone with mpox should talk with a health care provider to determine if they are eligible to receive a vaccine. Students can contact University Health Services if they have concern over a potential exposure. Employees should consult their health care provider.
People can get tested for mpox if they have a rash that looks like blisters or pimples and symptoms consistent with the disease. If students suspect they may have mpox, they can contact UHS via the MyUHS patient portal (select ‘make an appointment’ and follow the mpox prompts).
For more information, visit the UHS mpox webpage or download the mpox fact sheet.