Mpox Is Spreading In Texas – Here’s How To Stay Safe

Mpox, the viral, infectious disease formerly known as "Monkeypox", is raging across Texas. Here is how to protect yourself.

Reported cases of Mpox, (It used to be called Monkeypox - I guess the monkeys sued or something), are up over 70% this year compared to this same time in 2023. We're at 152 cases now vs. 86 in 2023.

Folks with Mpox may experience a painful rash, swollen lymph nodes, and fever among other things such as chills, muscle aches, headaches, and respiratory problems.

The Mpox infection is transmitted by direct skin-to-skin contact with a rash or cuts from a person who has the infection. It can also spread through their saliva, snot, and body fluids. Long face-to-face interactions, like talking and breathing, can also cause it to spread. - star-telegram

The disease formerly known as Monkeypox can also be spread by petting or cuddling with animals that are infected as well as by sharing food and sleeping together with infected humans and animals. Experts don't seem to know exactly how long an infected person with no symptoms can spread the virus.

Here are a few ways to protect yourself from the Star Telegram:

• Avoid close, skin-to-skin contact with people who have a rash.
• Avoid animals that can carry the virus.
• Avoid contact with objects and materials that a person with Mpox has used.
• Wash your hands often.
• Get the vaccine.

To get more info on the Mpox disease and updates about the Mpox spread across Texas and beyond, you can click here.