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Mpox

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE), and local public health agencies are currently monitoring cases of mpox (monkeypox) in the United States. Mpox has been identified in Colorado, including El Paso County.

Mpox is a rare disease that is endemic in central and west Africa (meaning it is consistently present in those areas without causing significant disruptions in the lives of most people). It spreads through person-to-person transmission or direct contact with respiratory droplets, bodily fluids, or skin lesions of those infected. Mpox can also live on other surfaces.

Mpox is rarely deadly and in most cases, mpox will resolve on its own. Symptoms of mpox often begin with fever, headache, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, and exhaustion. Typically, a rash develops within one to three days after the onset of fever, often beginning on the face and then spreading to other parts of the body. The mpox rash can look like pimples or blisters on the face, the inside of the mouth, hands, feet, chest, genitals, or anus. Most people recover within two to four weeks.

If you have had contact with someone has mpox and develop the symptoms described, please contact your health provider.

Mpox testing sites

People who have symptoms of mpox or think they have been exposed to mpox should contact a health care provider to discuss testing.

At your appointment, cover your rash or lesions with long sleeves, pants, or a bandage. Wear a well-fitting mask over your nose and mouth during your entire appointment.

The following locations in or near El Paso County have mpox testing available. Patients may also contact their primary care provider to determine if they would be able to facilitate testing.

  • El Paso County Public Health
    • Phone: (719) 578-3199 — option 1 for Reproductive Health Clinic
    • Address: 1675 W. Garden of the Gods Road, Ste. 2044, Colorado Springs, CO 80907
    • EPCPH will see patients who suspect they may have mpox. Mpox testing is by appointment only.
  • UCHealth Urgent care
    • Multiple locations
    • If your primary care provider is with UCHealth, contact them first to see if you can get your sample collected with a provider you already know.

What you need to know about the Jynneos vaccine

Some people who have been recently exposed to mpox, or think they have been exposed, should get a vaccine called Jynneos.

Getting vaccinated lowers your chance of getting mpox if you have been, may have been, or might become exposed. The sooner an exposed person gets the vaccine, the better. People who get vaccinated with Jynneos need two doses of the vaccine at least 28 days apart. For the best protection, you should get a second dose even if it has been longer than 28 days since your first dose. The vaccine can also reduce the severity of your symptoms if you do get sick later on. People who already have symptoms of mpox (fever, rash, etc.) should not get vaccinated.

The Jynneos vaccine is fully licensed for people 18 years of age and older and is available to those under 18 years of age who are at high risk for mpox exposure through an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA).

Important: Vaccine Eligibility Requirements

Getting vaccinated with a vaccine called Jynneos lowers your chance of getting mpox if you have been, may have been, or might become exposed. The sooner an exposed person gets the vaccine, the better. Public health specifically recommends vaccination for:

  • Anyone who had close physical contact with someone who has mpox in the last 14 days.
  • Anyone who:
    • Has multiple or anonymous sexual partners, or
    • Has close physical contact with other people in a venue where anonymous or group sex may occur, or
    • Was diagnosed with gonorrhea or syphilis in the past six months, or
    • Is living with HIV, or
    • Is immunocompromised and anticipates potential mpox exposure, or
    • Already uses or is eligible for HIV PrEP (medication to prevent HIV, such as Truvada, Descovy, or Apretude), or
    • Has sex in exchange for money, shelter, food, and other goods or needs.
  • Anyone identified by public health as a known high-risk contact of someone who has mpox.
  • Anyone whose sexual partner identifies with any of the above.
  • Anyone who anticipates experiencing any of the above.
  • Some people who are traveling to areas with clade I mpox cases.

Jynneos vaccines for uninsured and underinsured adults are available at El Paso County Public Health Immunization Clinic at the Citizen Service Center by appointment. For insured individuals, vaccines are available at several pharmacies in El Paso County. For help finding a location or making an appointment please call the Immunization Clinic at 719-578-3199, option 5.

Additional Resources

CDC: Mpox Information
CDPHE: Where to Get Vaccinated for Mpox