Mpox (Monkeypox): What HPSM Providers Need to Know
Mpox (monkeypox) is a rare disease spread through close, personal contact. In May 2022, mpox began to spread across the United States and other countries that do not normally report the virus. This was the first time mpox spread in so many places at once.
Even though the risk of mpox to the public is currently low, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warned of a possible resurgence in cases during the summer—including for those who are already vaccinated.
The following information will help you lower your patients’ risk of contracting mpox and provide treatment for those who are infected.
Diagnosing mpox
The CDPH has outlined definitions for confirmed, probable, and suspect cases to enhance surveillance for the spread of potential mpox cases in the state.
It is imperative that providers report cases to CDPH immediately when a patient meets criteria for suspected mpox.
Providers should become familiar with signs and symptoms suggestive for mpox. For more information on Clinical Recognition, see the CDPH’s Clinical Assist Tool for mpox guidance. Additional clinical guidance and resources can be found below.
About the mpox vaccine
The vaccine against mpox can be used for post-exposure prophylaxis and for disease prevention, however supply of the mpox vaccine is limited. San Mateo County Health makes doses available for those at highest risk as they receive them (such as for post-exposure
prophylaxis for contacts of a known case). San Mateo County Health’s Vaccination Request Form page provides information on vaccine eligibility and how to sign up for the mpox
vaccine.
Resources
California Department of Public Health: Includes information for health care providers on:
- Case definitions, diagnosis, and reporting instructions.
- Infection control.
- Prevention and management in healthcare settings.
- Treatment.
Visit cdph.ca.gov to learn more
San Mateo County Health: San Mateo County Health’s information on mpox, case data and the Vaccination Request Form Page.
Visit smchealth.org to learn more
HPSM’s mpox member webpage: Includes information on what members can do:
- To protect themselves from mpox
- If they think they have mpox
- If they do have mpox
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Includes information for health care providers on:
- Case definitions
- Key characteristics for identifying mpox
- Clinical considerations for mpox vaccination
- Infection control in health care settings and while a patient is at home
- Specimen collection