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Mpox Virus

Mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) is an orthopoxvirus caused by the Monkeypox virus (MPXV), typically transmitted from animals to humans, that causes a disease with symptoms similar to, but less severe than, smallpox. Mpox is typically mild and self-limiting, with most people recovering within 2-4 weeks. However, severe illness can occur in some individuals.

Mpox is typically found in parts of central and west Africa. It does not usually circulate in humans or animals in Canada. Initial symptoms of monkeypox may include:

  • fever, chills
  • headache
  • swollen lymph nodes
  • muscle pain
  • fatigue
  • The above symptoms, followed by a rash or sores, usually one to three days later, on the palms of the hands, on the soles of the feet, inside the mouth, and/or on the genitals. In some cases, the rash is the first symptom.

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