Mpox

There has been an outbreak of mpox (also known as monkeypox) in many countries, even where it was previously unknown. Mpox is caused by the monkeypox virus and spreads mainly through close person-to-person contact and sometimes through contaminated surfaces. It can also pass from infected wild animals to people through direct contact.

People who live or spend time together in close quarters such as workplaces are at higher risk if the virus is in the community.

Symptoms and diagnosis

Mpox can resemble other infections, making it crucial to distinguish it from conditions like chickenpox, measles, bacterial skin infections, scabies, herpes, syphilis and medication-associated allergies.

Testing is critical for early care, to prevent severe illness and reduce the spread of mpox.

The illness begins with:

• fever
• headache
• muscle aches
• back pain
• swollen lymph nodes
• exhaustion
• joint pain.

A rash appears on any part of the body one to five days after the first symptoms and can last for two to four weeks.

Mpox virus can remain on clothing, bedding, towels, objects, electronics and surfaces touched by an infected person.

Others can become infected by touching these items, especially if they have cuts or abrasions or touch their face without washing their hands.

Guidance for workers

If you think you have mpox, you should:

• inform the workplace authorities and seek medical advice immediately
• isolate from others until you are evaluated and tested
• if confirmed, stay isolated until all lesions have healed (crusted over, scabs fallen off and new skin formed)
• follow local health authority instructions on isolation – whether at home or in a health facility.

Prevention

You can do these things to help prevent the spread of mpox.

• Have open conversations with your close contacts about any symptoms.
• Avoid close contact with anyone who has mpox.
• Wash hands frequently with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand rub.
• Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects regularly.
• Be mindful of hygiene practices to reduce the risk of transmission in the workplace.

Guidance for businesses

Treatment

Educate workers to focus on caring for the rash, managing pain and preventing complications.

Early and supportive care is key to managing symptoms and avoiding further issues.

Support self-care and prevention

Set a policy and procedure to support workers’ home isolation.

Educate and encourage frequent handwashing with soap and water or use of hand sanitiser, especially after contact with sores.

Require workers to wear a mask and cover lesions when interacting with others until the rash fully heals.

Provide skin care advice: keep the skin dry and uncovered unless in shared spaces.

Emergency response and planning

Develop an emergency response plan that includes clear communication channels, infection control measures and guidelines for quarantine and isolation.

Establish protocols for monitoring symptoms among employees and ensure prompt reporting of any suspected cases to health authorities.

Stigma and discrimination

Conduct awareness programmes to combat misconceptions and stigma linked to mpox. These can undermine health efforts, as people may be more reluctant to come forward and seek care and treatment. Promote understanding, emphasising that mpox can affect anyone.