Mpox in Colorado
What is Mpox?
Mpox is a virus in the orthopox family of viruses, which includes smallpox. Mpox can cause serious illness.
Mpox in Colorado
Cases in Colorado, and nationally, are increasing. For perspective, in 2024 so far, we have more than double the amount of cases we had in all of 2023 in Colorado.
Who is at risk for Mpox?
Anyone can contract mpox. The mpox virus does not discriminate, it does not know about your gender or sexual orientation. One Colorado’s public health partners have let us know that there is still no science that points to the virus preferring certain body parts either.
The MSM community:
Since 2022, this strain of mpox is predominantly spreading within men who have sex with men (MSM). Why? Epidemiologists and health experts still do not fully understand. We do know that once a virus gets into a community, it is more likely to spread within that community due to close contact. It is important to understand and remember that mpox is not a sexually transmitted infection. It is spread through skin to skin contact or through saliva, which can happen during sex, but sex is not the only way to transmit mpox.
Can I assess my risk for mpox based on my behavior?
Yes! There are certain activities that can increase your risk for contracting mpox. We’re not going to tell you what to do, but we can provide you with the best information we have on what activities and behaviors might increase your risk. It is up to you to make informed decisions about what feels best for you and our community. If you are participating in activities that may put you at risk for contracting mpox, consider getting vaccinated!
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Jynneos: The Mpox Vaccine
Jynneos is a 2-dose series vaccine for mpox. Anyone can get the mpox vaccine if you believe you may be at risk. There should not be criteria required to access the vaccine in Colorado. If you are running into barriers accessing the Jynneos vaccine, please let us know.
Doses:
If you have only received 1 dose, it’s never too late to get your second dose for additional protection! If you have received 2 doses, no additional doses are recommended at this time.
Find a vaccine clinic in Colorado:
Mpox symptoms
Here’s a reminder of mpox symptoms to look out for:
- Rash or bumps that may be located on the hands, feet, chest, face, mouth, or near the genitals, and
- Flu-like symptoms including fever, headache, and exhaustion.
I think I’ve been exposed to mpox…
- It may be possible to receive the mpox vaccine as a post-exposure prophylaxis to reduce your likelihood of getting mpox.
- If you have symptoms of mpox, contact a healthcare provider or check out testing sites.
Get in touch
Do you have questions, concerns, or a story to share about your mpox experience? Get in touch with our Health Equity team to let us know.
While we don’t have all the answers, we are working with local, statewide, and national experts to learn and share accurate information and resources. One Colorado greatly appreciates the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment for their ongoing partnership and allyship.
CDPHE Resources for Mpox:
cdphe.colorado.gov/diseases-a-to-z/mpox
Disclaimer: The information provided in this resource is intended to give general information to the public and is for educational purposes only. The information does not, and is not intended to, constitute medical advice.
