With more summer gatherings increasing opportunities for exposure, Springfield-Greene County Health is offering mpox vaccines at no-cost to those who are considered high risk by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. While reported cases have fallen dramatically since last summer, the CDC says the risk of a resurgence of the virus is likely substantial.
The virus does not spread easily without close, prolonged often skin-to-skin contact with someone who is experiencing symptoms, such as:
- Direct contact with infectious rash, scabs, sores, or body fluids.
- Contact such as hugging, kissing, massaging, sexual activity or talking closely.
- Close, prolonged contact with respiratory droplets or oral fluids from a person with mpox.
- Touching items such as clothing, bedding, towels or surfaces used by someone with mpox.
The CDC recommends the two-dose mpox vaccination for:
- Those exposed to someone with mpox.
- Men who have sex with men and have more than one sexual partner.
- People who have engaged in sexual activity in the past 6 months in exchange for money.
- Those who have had sex or other close, personal contact at commercial sex venues or at large public events in a geographic area where mpox transmission is occurring.
- People who have sex partners with any of the above risks.
- Those who anticipate experiencing any of the above risks.
A map of providers currently offering the mpox vaccine and a registration form to receive the vaccination at the Health Department can be found at vaccine417.com.
Mpox symptoms are generally mild, most people who contract the virus able to recover at home. However, symptoms of mpox can range from unpleasant to painful and can become severe. Mpox typically starts with flu-like symptoms with a blistery rash appearing 1 to 3 days after the onset of a fever, but symptoms may vary. More information on mpox, how it spreads, and its symptoms is available at vaccine417.com.
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Media may contact the Health Department PIO Team by call or text at 417-380-2556 or email at [email protected].
Springfield-Greene County Health Department
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417-864-1658
227 E. Chestnut Expressway