The CDC is tracking an outbreak of monkeypox that has spread across several countries that don’t normally report monkeypox, including the United States. A total of 10 cases have been reported in Kansas and Missouri to date. View a map of monkeypox cases.
The monkeypox virus is part of the same family of viruses as smallpox. Monkeypox is rarely fatal and its symptoms are similar to smallpox symptoms, but milder. Visit the CDC for examples of monkeypox rash and a list of symptoms.
Monkeypox spreads through close, sustained physical contact with other people who have monkeypox. Anyone who has been in close contact with someone who has monkeypox can become infected. Visit the CDC to learn more about how monkeypox spreads and how to prevent infection. If you have symptoms of monkeypox, you should talk to your healthcare provider, even if you don’t think you had contact with someone who has monkeypox.
Vaccines for monkeypox are available.
