Transmission
Monkeypox is transmitted person to person through direct skin-to-skin contact, having contact with an infectious rash, through body fluids or through respiratory secretions. Such contact often occurs during prolonged, face-to-face contact or during intimate
physical contact, such as kissing, cuddling or sex.
Visit the NC DHHS website for What You Need To Know about Monkeypox and Quick Facts.
Prevention Steps
Take the following steps to prevent getting monkeypox:
- Avoid close, skin-to-skin contact with people who have a rash that looks like monkeypox.
Do not touch the rash or scabs of a person with monkeypox.
Do not kiss, hug, cuddle or have sex with someone with monkeypox.
Do not share eating utensils or cups with a person with monkeypox.
- Do not handle or touch the bedding, towels, or clothing of a person with monkeypox.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- In Central and West Africa, avoid contact with animals that can spread monkeypox virus, usually rodents and primates. Also, avoid sick or dead animals, as well as bedding or other materials they have touched.
If you are sick with monkeypox:
- Isolate at home
- If you have an active rash or other symptoms, stay in a separate room or area away from people or pets you live with, when possible.
Testing
If you have a new or unexplained rash, see your healthcare provider or the Health Department, and avoid having close or intimate contact with anyone until you have been checked out.
You can schedule an appointment with the Health Department by calling 910-433-3600, Monday through Friday from 8 am to 5 pm (follow the prompts). Please arrive at least 15 minutes prior to your appointment time
Vaccines and Eligibility
Vaccines are available in limited supply, at no cost, and are currently only being offered to individuals with known or suspected exposure to monkeypox. This includes people who have been in close physical contact with someone diagnosed with monkeypox
and men who have sex with men, or transgender individuals, who have had multiple or anonymous sex partners in the last 14 days in either a venue where monkeypox was present or in an area where the virus is spreading.