Monkeypox (Mpox) in Tulare County
If you have any questions about Monkeypox in Tulare County,
please call (559) 685-5725 or email phimmunizations@tularecounty.ca.gov
Mpox
Mpox (formerly monkeypox) is a viral infection, similar to smallpox (but milder), that can spread from infected humans, animals, and materials contaminated with the virus—though not easily. Mpox can cause flu-like symptoms and a distinct rash, lesions, and bumps on the body. Since spring of 2022, there has been an increase in mpox cases in many parts of the world, including here in California. However, the risk of getting mpox is currently low.
How It’s Spread
Mpox is spread by close personal contact and touching (hugging, kissing, intimate/sexual contact) with someone who may or may not have visible symptoms. It can also be spread by touching contaminated items (clothing, towels, sex toys/fetish gear, bedding).
Signs and Symptoms
It's important to be on the lookout for any symptoms that suddenly appear, like rashes or sores on the face, body, genitals, arms, or legs that may be accompanied by a flu-like illness. These rashes can be bumpy or fluid-filled on parts of the body or may be limited to one part of the body. Symptoms can start 3–21 days after exposure.
If you have symptoms of mpox, isolate from others and contact a health care provider right away to get checked. Talk to your provider if you have any questions about your health, including a new rash.
While anyone can get mpox, the mpox outbreak is an evolving public health emergency. CDPH closely monitors mpox transmission in the U.S. and California to ensure rapid identification of cases and appropriate care for them and their close contacts.
Testing
Swabs from lesions are collected by your provider and sent to a laboratory for testing.
Prevention
There are many ways to prevent the spread of mpox and lower the chances of contracting the virus. Vaccination is an effective form of prevention, when combined with other preventive measures, to reduce transmission of mpox virus (and prevent disease, hospitalization, or death).
Video courtesy of UC Davis Health
What is Monkeypox? Symptoms, Transmission, and Vaccination Questions Answered
CDC: 5 Things Sexually Active People Need to Know About Monkeypox
