What is Mpox?
Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is caused by a virus that is in the same family as smallpox. People with mpox often get a rash and other cold- or flu-like symptoms. Mpox is not related to chickenpox.
Where is mpox spreading?
Mpox is present in most locations worldwide, but the current concern is for central and east Africa.
Should I delay or defer travel due to the Mpox outbreak?
According to the WHO, unless you have signs and symptoms compatible with Mpox infection, are considered a "suspect, probable or confirmed case by jurisdictional health authorities" or have been identified as a contact of a Mpox case and subject to health monitoring, there is no reason to delay or defer travel.
What can I do to limit my exposure to Mpox during travel?
Mpox is spread primarily through close, personal skin-to-skin contact with someone who has active lesions caused by the virus, or through the sharing of fabrics such as bedding or towels. Wash your hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Do not use shared bedding, towels, or clothing. For more information, review prevention guidance.
If you are traveling in central Africa, avoid contact with animals that can spread Mpox, such as rodents and primates. Avoid sick or dead animals as well as bedding or other materials they have touched.
If you live in the U.S., have not yet departed for your trip, and believe you are in a group at higher risk of exposure, contact your primary care provider or public health authorities to inquire about accessing pre-exposure vaccination available in your community. Chicago residents can utilize the City of Chicago Mpox vaccine finder. Suburban Cook county residents (including Evanston) can search for vaccinations by zip code through the Cook Country Department of Public Health Mpox page.
What is the treatment for mpox during travel?
The CDC currently recommends vaccination for people who have been exposed to a known mpox case and those who are deemed to be at increased risk to contract mpox. Medical professionals in your location can provide details about available treatment options, which may include antiviral and pain relief medication or referral to an infection specialist.
If I am abroad for Northwestern purposes and believe I was exposed to mpox, or have symptoms that could be mpox, what should I do?
Make an appointment to see a local healthcare provider as soon as possible. Avoid contact with others until you are evaluated.
- If you are a student or faculty member enrolled in Northwestern’s GeoBlue for Students or GeoBlue for Employees plan, there are numerous ways to connect with a doctor in your area.
- If you are studying abroad and receive international health care insurance through a third-party provider, such as Arcadia or IES, or are enrolled in an exchange program that provides you access to a campus health clinic, reach out to your local contact for appointment assistance.
Travelers who contract mpox are expected to follow local public health guidance pertaining to quarantine and isolation. The same supportive resources and services that applied to COVID-19 patients, such as assistance with food delivery, may be applicable to travelers with mpox.
Where can I direct questions about Mpox in relation to travel?
Contact a healthcare provider for specific or personal questions about mpox and travel. Suggestions include contacting:
- Your primary care provider
- GeoBlue (or a representative from the health insurance provider associated with your program)
- A recommended healthcare provider in your community abroad
- A local travel clinic
- Northwestern Student Health Service
What resources were used to compile this information?