Mpox (monkeypox)

Who does mpox affect?

Summer 2022 was the first time that many cases of mpox were recorded in Europe, and also Switzerland. As of April 2024, isolated cases are still being recorded in Switzerland and across Europe.

Those at the highest risk are men and trans people who have sex with men. 

How is mpox transmitted?

Mpox is transmitted through direct skin and mucous-membrane contact – especially during sex. Transmission via surfaces or other forms of contact is extremely unlikely.

How can I protect myself?

Vaccination reduces the risk of infection and the severity of the symptoms. The vaccine is only recommended to those who are at particular risk:

• men and trans people who have sex with men 
• those in contact with infected persons (e.g. medical professionals)

What symptoms can appear?

Symptoms can vary widely in type and severity. They appear 5 to 21 days after infection and include:

• Fever
• Headache, muscle and back pain
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Skin rash (spots/pustules) which can appear on any part of the body, even inside the body (anus, mouth)

The symptoms can be similar to those of syphilis, gonorrhoea and herpes. It is also possible to not show any symptoms.

How do they test for mpox?

If you suspect you may have mpox, it is vital that you phone a medical profession as soon as possible. If an infection is diagnosed at an early stage, you can:

• begin a course of treatment (painkillers, ointments, medication)
• protect others from infection

How is mpox treated?

Regularly tend to and cover affected patches of skin, and thoroughly wash your hands after any contact. The infection usually goes away on its own. Where required, symptoms such as fever, itching and pain can be treated with medication or ointments. For more severe symptoms, antiviral therapies can be used.

It is important to inform everyone with whom you have had close and/or sexual contact within the last three weeks.