When is GP consultation recommended for mpox?

Mpox can cause a rash or lesions that change over time, along with fever, headache, muscle aches, tiredness or swollen lymph nodes. Several other illnesses can look similar, so a clinician may need to assess the skin and ask about contact, travel and symptoms. People with weakened immunity, pregnancy, children and anyone with extensive or painful lesions may need closer medical supervision.

Call the clinic before attending and describe the rash so staff can advise how to arrive safely. Avoid close skin-to-skin or sexual contact, do not share towels, clothing or bedding, and cover lesions with clean clothing or dressings if practical. Wash hands often and avoid touching the eyes. Keep a list of symptom onset, contacts and medicines for the consultation.

Seek urgent care for breathing difficulty, confusion, fainting, severe dehydration, rapidly worsening illness, severe eye pain or vision changes. Urgent assessment is also appropriate when lesions involve the eye, mouth or airway, or when pain prevents drinking or passing urine. Do not wait for a routine appointment if a person with mpox has a markedly weakened immune system and is deteriorating.

Ask whether the rash needs testing, how to care for lesions, how long to avoid close contact, and how to protect household members. Ask which symptoms mean you should return urgently and whether any regular medicines or health conditions alter your care.