Sindecuse Health Center

Mpox

Sindecuse Health Center staff are monitoring the ongoing spread of Mpox. The medical staff are provided with updates by the Michigan Dept. of Health and Human Services, Kalamazoo County Health and Community Services and the American College Health Association regarding the risks, spread and treatment of Mpox. Health center staff are prepared to detect cases and collaborate with local and state health agencies regarding current treatment options.

Kalamazoo County Health and Community Services has a web site devoted to Mpox resources, information and vaccinations available to those in Kalamazoo.

Access Kalamazoo County Resources, including vaccination

Mpox facts

Mpox is a rare disease caused by infection with the Mpox virus. Mpox is rarely fatal.

Mpox can be acquired by all people, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation
Mpox is spread through:
- Direct contact with an infectious rash, scabs, or body fluids
- Respiratory secretions during prolonged, face-to-face contact, or during intimate physical contact, such as kissing, cuddling, or sex
- Touching objects, fabrics (such as clothing or linens) that previously touched the rash or body fluids of someone with Mpox
- Being scratched or bitten by an infected animal
Mpox causes a rash:
- The rash will go through several stages, including scabs, before healing
- The rash may be located on or near the genitals or anus but could also be on other areas like the hands, feet, chest, face, or mouth
- The rash can look like pimples or blisters and may be painful or itchy
Mpox can spread from the time symptoms start until the rash has fully healed and a fresh layer of skin has formed. This can take several weeks.

Activities that indicate increased risk

Mpox can be acquired by anyone but some activities put people higher risk for possible infection. Individuals at higher risk include those in these categories:

Had close physical contact in the last 14 days with someone who was clinically diagnosed with Mpox
Engaged in any type of sex work
Are partners of individuals who engage in higher-risk sexual activities—contact with multiple or anonymous partners, intimate or sexual contact in a social or sexual venue, or sex exchanged for money or other goods or services
Close or household contacts of individuals who have been exposed to MPV or engaged in higher-risk activities
Men who have sex with men and have a history of STI in the last year
Had multiple sexual partners in the last 14 days or plan to have multiple sex partners
Had close contact at a high-risk event or venue in the last 14 days or plan to attend a high-risk event or venue
Taking HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) medications

If you are concerned about possible infection with the Mpox virus because you are experiencing symptoms, make an appointment at the health center online or by calling (269) 387-3287. Educate yourself about symptoms and prevention with the resources listed below.

Anyone with a higher risk for infection should contact KCHCS at (269) 373-5198 to ask about vaccination. Vaccine supply is limited at this time.

Resources

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have published resources about this viral disease:

More information can be found at the CDC's Mpox site.