Mpox / „Monkeypox“

What is Mpox / monkeypox?

Mpox is an infectious disease caused by the Mpox virus (orthopoxvirus).

The course of the disease can vary greatly. In addition to general symptoms such as fever, headache or aching limbs and feeling ill, skin changes (lesions) often occur. These can also occur in the genital or anal area and can be associated with severe pain.

In recent years, an increasing number of Mpox cases have been observed in certain networks, including men who have sex with men. In principle, however, anyone can become infected with Mpox / monkeypox.

Especially for people with weakened Immune systemThe immune system is the body's defence system. It protects us from pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites as well as from damaging... Mehr the disease can become severe and require intensive medical care.

Transmission of Mpox / monkeypox

Mpox / monkeypox is mainly transmitted through close contact with the skin or mucous membranes. Infection is particularly possible through contact with blisters, pustules, scabs or other skin lesions. Body fluids can also pass on the virus.

Kissing, intensive physical contact and sex can increase the risk of infection. Condoms alone do not offer reliable protection, as monkeypox is mainly transmitted via direct skin contact. However, they can further reduce the risk.

Infection is possible from the onset of the first symptoms and continues until all skin lesions have completely healed.

Protection against monkeypox

Vaccination is the most effective protection against monkeypox. It can significantly reduce the risk of infection and protects in particular against severe courses of the disease.

In Germany, the Mpox vaccination is primarily recommended for people who have an increased risk of infection. This includes, for example, people with frequently changing sexual contacts or close physical contact with other people.

The vaccination usually consists of two doses, which are administered 28 days apart. Protection does not build up immediately, but gradually.

Vaccination can also be useful after close contact with a person suffering from Mpox (monkeypox). It can help to prevent the disease or mitigate its progression.

In addition to vaccination, it is important to look out for symptoms, avoid close physical contact and seek medical advice if you suspect you have monkeypox.

Other measures to reduce the risk of transmission of monkeypox include

• Do not share objects during sex, for example dildos or other sex toys.
• Be careful with symptoms and avoid physical proximity and sex until it is clear what is behind them.

In the case of sexual transmission, monkeypox can occur particularly at contact points such as the mouth, genital or anal area. Condoms can reduce the risk of symptoms in these areas, but do not offer complete protection as the virus can also be passed on via other areas of the skin.

Symptoms and possible consequences of monkeypox

When do symptoms occur?
After infection, the first symptoms can appear the very next day. They often begin after 5 to 11 days. In individual cases it can also up to 21 days until the first symptoms appear (Incubation periodThe incubation period is the time between infection with a pathogen and the appearance of the first symptoms. Important points: -... Mehr).

Which symptoms are typical?
Monkeypox can progress in different ways. Some people have general symptoms first, while others are directly affected by the skin changes.

Typical symptoms are, for example

• General complaints such as fever, fatigue, headache and muscle or back pain, feeling ill
• Swollen Lymph nodesLymph nodes are small, bean-shaped organs of the immune system. They are located in many places in the body, for example on the neck, in the armpits, in the... Mehr
• Skin changes (lesions)They can start as spots or nodules, develop into blisters or pustules and later crust over (scabs/crusts).

Where can the skin changes occur?
The skin changes can occur in different places - for example on the face, hands or feet as well as in the genital or anal area. Depending on where they occur, they can be perceived as particularly unpleasant or painful.

How long does the disease last?
The symptoms can last for several days to weeks. Monkeypox often heals within 2 to 4 weeks It is crucial that all skin changes are completely healed.

Possible consequences and complications
In some cases, additional symptoms may occur, for example:

• Inflammation of the skin, when damaged areas are covered with BacteriaBriefly explained:
  Bacteria are tiny microorganisms. Many are harmless or beneficial - but some can cause diseases and leave... Mehr infect
• Scarring after the lesions have healed

If you notice symptoms consistent with monkeypox, or if you have had close contact with a person who has been confirmed to have monkeypox, it is sensible to seek medical advice and reduce close physical contact until it is clear what is behind it.

Treatment / Therapy

• SymptomaticPain therapy, local wound/skin management, stool regulation for anal discomfort, fluids/protection
• Antiviral: Tecovirimat in specialised centres for severe courses/complications
• Wound careKeep lesions clean/dry, loose clothing, no manipulation/scratching
• Isolation/Sexpause until all lesions have completely healed (crusts have fallen off and new skin has formed)

Vaccination (pre- & post-exposure)

The following is used MVA-BN vaccine (Imvanex/Jynneos).

• Pre-exposure (before a risk)2 doses at intervals of approx. 4 weeks for people at increased risk (e.g. MSMMSM is the abbreviation for "Men who have Sex with Men" - i.e. men who have sex with men. - The term describes behaviour, not ... Mehr with frequently changing partners, certain occupational groups).
• Post-exposure (after contact)Administer as early as possible (ideally within 4 days, up to 14 days it can still mitigate the course). Arrange an appointment quickly via specialised practices/health authorities.

Protection / Prevention

• Close skin contact / sex Avoid contact with people who have new, unclear skin changes
• Cover lesions, own towels/bed linen/toys, thorough hand hygiene
• Condoms/gloves/lubricant reduce additional risks, but do not replace skin contact protection
• Vaccination status check and take advantage of vaccination if necessary
• At events/parties: watch out for symptoms, stay at home at the first sign and get tested

What to do with ...

... Suspicion of monkeypox?
Contact doctor's surgery / AIDS service / doctor, organise PCR test, pause close contact / sex until then, cover lesions, use your own towels / laundry.

... positive test?
Clarify pain and wound care with the treating practice, isolation until complete healing. Inform contact persons (anonymously if possible) - they can receive a post-exposure vaccination if necessary.

... severe pain, abdominal/anal discomfort, difficulty swallowing, many lesions?
Acute medical clarification; in severe cases, antiviral therapy (Tecovirimat) is possible.