Public health advice on protecting yourself and others from mpox (monkeypox) 

Public Advice I Updated: 2 September 2022

You can catch mpox through close contact with someone who has symptoms. Close contact includes skin-to-skin (e.g., touching, anal or vaginal sex); face-to-face (e.g.; talking, singing or breathing); mouth-to-skin (e.g., oral sex); and mouth-to-mouth (e.g., kissing). You can also catch mpox from contaminated bedding, towels, surfaces or objects. 

Protect yourself 

  • If someone you know is diagnosed with or has suspected mpox, avoid close contact with them, including sexual contact
  • Know the symptoms and check yourself regularly
  • If you have symptoms, seek health advice and self-isolate while you wait to get tested
  • Get vaccinated if it is available to you
  • Clean and disinfect environments that could have been contaminated with the virus from someone who is infectious
  • Stay informed about mpox in your area
  • Have open, non-judgmental conversations with people you come into close contact with (especially sexual contact) about any symptoms you or they may have 

 

Protect others if you are recovering from mpox at home

  • Isolate in a separate room
  • Use a separate bathroom, or clean and disinfect (with household disinfectant) after each use
  • Clean hands frequently using soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces and objects
  • Avoid sweeping and vacuuming
  • Use separate dishes, cups, bedding, towels and electronics
  • Do your own laundry. Put everything in a plastic bag before carrying it to the washing machine. Use soap and water > 60 degrees.
  • Open windows 

 

Related health advice

Videos & infographics

All →
Infographic

Care of skin lesions in mpox infection
Infographic

Mpox screening tool for health workers
Infographic

Mpox triage and clinical assessment for suspected and confirmed cases
Infographic

Mpox lesions differential diagnosis

Related health topics

Diseases and conditions

Mpox