Mpox is a viral disease caused by the monkeypox virus, a member of the same family of viruses that includes smallpox. Mpox can cause fever, chills, swollen lymph nodes, fatigue, headache, muscle aches, and a rash that may appear anywhere on the body. The rash can be painful and may resemble pimples, blisters, or sores.

While most people recover fully from mpox within 2 to 4 weeks, some individuals may experience severe illness, particularly those with weakened immune systems. Mpox spreads through close physical contact with an infected person, contact with contaminated materials, or prolonged face-to-face exposure.

During the 2022 outbreak, the CDC found that approximately 38% of reported mpox cases occurred among people living with HIV, highlighting the close relationship between HIV and mpox prevention efforts. People with advanced HIV are at increased risk of severe illness and complications from mpox infection.

The Georgia AIDS Coalition supports public health efforts that connect Georgians to accurate information, vaccination resources, HIV care, and prevention services that reduce the impact of mpox and other infectious diseases.

Mpox prevention focuses on reducing exposure, recognizing symptoms early, and increasing access to vaccination for individuals at elevated risk.

The CDC recommends that people avoid close physical contact with individuals who have symptoms of mpox, avoid sharing personal items that may be contaminated, and seek medical evaluation if symptoms develop.

The JYNNEOS vaccine is available to help protect against mpox and is recommended for certain individuals at increased risk of exposure. Vaccination remains one of the most effective tools available for preventing severe illness and reducing transmission.

The Georgia AIDS Coalition supports efforts to expand access to vaccination, testing, and education for communities disproportionately affected by mpox and HIV.

Most people with mpox recover without specialized treatment. Supportive care, including hydration, pain management, and symptom monitoring, is often sufficient for mild cases.

For individuals at risk of severe disease, antiviral medications may be considered. Treatment decisions are based on a person’s symptoms, underlying medical conditions, and immune status.

People living with advanced HIV may require additional monitoring and treatment because severe immune suppression can increase the risk of complications, hospitalization, and death. Maintaining HIV treatment and viral suppression remains one of the most important ways to reduce the risk of severe mpox outcomes.

The 2022 outbreak highlighted the importance of integrated care between HIV programs, STI services, and infectious disease providers.

Many individuals affected by mpox were already connected to HIV prevention or treatment services. Public health agencies leveraged these existing healthcare networks to rapidly distribute vaccines, testing, treatment, and educational resources.

The Georgia AIDS Coalition continues to support comprehensive healthcare approaches that address HIV, sexually transmitted infections, and emerging infectious diseases through coordinated prevention, education, and care.

Individuals experiencing symptoms consistent with mpox should contact a healthcare provider as soon as possible for evaluation and guidance.

The Georgia Department of Public Health provides statewide guidance on Mpox prevention, testing, vaccination, and treatment.

Available resources include:

• Mpox vaccination information
• Testing and diagnosis guidance
• Clinical recommendations for healthcare providers
• Educational materials and public health updates
• HIV and Mpox care resources

The Georgia AIDS Coalition works alongside healthcare providers, community organizations, and public health agencies to promote evidence-based information and ensure communities have access to trusted resources.

As public health guidance evolves, GAC remains committed to helping Georgians stay informed about emerging infectious diseases and their impact on people living with HIV.