Mpox

Cases of mpox have been on the rise worldwide and within Los Angeles County. CSUDH is closely monitoring the developments around this virus and will provide updates as appropriate. To help keep yourself and others safe, please review the health and safety information provided below.

Symptoms/Exposure

  • While mpox is usually a mild, self-limiting (gets better on its own) disease, severe cases with more serious complications can occur.
  • Mpox is spread by close contact with an infected person or with materials (ex. bedding, towels) that are contaminated with the virus. It is not spread by inhalation.
  • Infection can last from one to four weeks, and symptoms typically include fever, muscle aches, headache, swollen lymph nodes, fatigue, and rash. 
  • Symptom onset (the time it takes for symptoms to first appear after infection) ranges from 5-21 days.
  • The rash may start on the face and then spread to other parts of the body, and the sores may look different from person to person. 
  • Any person who suspects they have been exposed to mpox and has symptoms, should be monitored and follow CDC guidelines for mpox exposure.

Prevention/Vaccines

  • Mpox spreads through close contact.
  • To prevent the spread of the virus, people should avoid hugging, kissing, or talking closely with anyone with mpox.
  • Any type of sexual intercourse should be avoided, including oral, anal, or vaginal contact with anyone known to have mpox.
  • Touching shared fabrics, surfaces, and objects with anyone known to have mpox should also be avoided.
  • The mpox vaccine is available to select groups of people who are at high risk for contracting the virus.

Campus Preparation

CSUDH is taking precautions in case of infections on campus. These include:

  • Collaboration between Student Health Services (SHS) and Housing, Athletics, and student life groups to share prevention strategies and information, particularly among students who may be at high risk
  • Campus protocols and communication plans 
  • Working with L.A. County Health officials to obtain testing and vaccination resources for campus
  • Isolation units available in University Housing

Resources

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has published recommendations for isolation and infection control for people with mpox. 

The L.A. County Department of Public Health's mpox website contains information about:

  • Vaccine availability and eligibility
  • County cases data
  • Symptoms
  • FAQ 
  • Latest News

The department has also issued: