What should you know about a mild mpox rash?

Mpox lesions may appear in one area or several areas and can change from flat spots to raised bumps, blisters, or crusted sores. They may be painful, itchy, or accompanied by fever, tiredness, headache, or swollen glands. A mild rash can look different from person to person and can resemble other skin conditions. A rash does not by itself prove mpox, while a person with mpox may have only a small number of lesions. Sexual or close skin-to-skin contact can spread infection, including through contact with lesions or contaminated materials.

Cover lesions with clean clothing or a dressing if practical, wash hands after touching the area, and do not scratch, squeeze, or share towels, bedding, clothing, or personal items. Avoid close skin-to-skin and sexual contact until a clinician gives you appropriate advice and the lesions have healed. Do not use unprescribed creams on broken skin. Arrange a GP consultation and describe when the rash started, how it has changed, and any recent close contact. If assessment is advised, follow local instructions for travelling and reduce contact with others on the way.

Seek urgent medical advice if the rash is near the eye, causes severe pain, becomes rapidly worse, or makes it difficult to eat, drink, breathe, or pass urine. Prompt assessment is also needed if you have fever with a new unexplained rash, severe headache, confusion, or marked weakness. People with weakened immunity, pregnancy, or serious skin conditions should contact a clinician early because complications may be more concerning.

Ask whether testing is needed, how to cover and care for the lesions, how long to avoid close contact, and which symptoms should trigger urgent review.