What to do if you suspect you have mpox

Symptoms of mpox

The incubation period of mpox (previously monkey pox) is approximately 6 to 13 days but can vary between 5 and 21 days. 

First symptoms include

• Fever
• Headache
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Back pain
• Muscle pain and
• Tiredness.

Skin symptoms usually appear 1 to 3 days after the onset of fever. A generalized or local rash appears first and foremost on the face, or on the hands or feet. The rash is reddish or can look like pimples or blisters. The skin lesions generally vary in size.

As the disease progresses, the blisters grow and fill with pus, after which they will dry up. Blisters may also form on the mucous membrane of the mouth and in the genitals. 

The symptoms typically last 2 to 4 weeks. Most people with mpox recover without treatment.

Mpox can also cause a serious disease especially in those whose immune system has been weakened by other illnesses or medical treatment. In African mpox epidemics, more severe forms of the disease have been observed particularly in children and pregnant patients.

You may be at a higher risk for infection if 

• You have been in contact with a person with mpox in the past three weeks or 
• You have traveled in a region where mpox is reported or 
• You have had multiple sexual partners

If you suspect that you have mpox

• If you suspect that you have mpox, always call your health center during office hours within Helsinki or your wellbeing services county, or the Medical Helpline 116 117, available around the clock, before seeking laboratory testing or treatment.
• In the HUS region, you can also contact the Venereal Diseases Outpatient Clinic.
• You will be given instructions on arriving at a health care facility. You must wear a surgical face mask or an FFP mask. Cover any blisters and abnormal skin lesions by wearing clothes with long sleeves and legs. 
• Avoid close contact with others.

Examining mpox samples

The swab sample for mpox testing is taken from a broken blister or from a skin lesion. The samples are examined in our laboratory. We process samples on weekdays. Analyzing a single sample takes one day.

HUS laboratories are also prepared to examine mpox samples from elsewhere in Finland if necessary. The development of the mpox situation is being actively monitored at HUS laboratories. 

Vaccines

There is a vaccine against mpox. In Finland, the vaccine is administered to people who have been exposed to mpox and those in risk groups. The City of Helsinki and the wellbeing services counties in Uusimaa are responsible for potential mpox vaccinations.