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Mpox is a viral infection. The virus is not dangerous to most people, but it is contagious and the effects can be very painful. Mpox is also called monkeypox.
On August 14, 2024, the WHO declared an outbreak of Mpox in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) as an emergency. We understand that this may cause concern.
The type of virus that the WHO is currently warning about is called Clade 1b. The type of virus that spread worldwide, including in Amsterdam, in 2022 is Clade 2b. So far, there have been no reports of the Clade 1b variant in Amsterdam. We are closely monitoring the situation in Africa. We are also vigilant in case of new mpox cases in Amsterdam.
At this time, it is not possible to get a preventive vaccination against mpox. However, people who have had close (sexual) contact with someone with mpox are offered a vaccination. For more information, please visit this page from RIVM
This is what you can do yourself
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Recognizing Mpox
When you get mpox, you will first notice one or more of the following symptoms: fever, headache, aching muscles, swollen lymph nodes and fatigue. These symptoms begin between 5 and 21 days after you become infected with the virus. After a few days, you will develop a rash that can spread over your face and body. The rash begins with spots, which turn into blisters that eventually dry up. These blisters can leave scars.
When you think you have mpox
- Have you been somewhere where someone had the virus? Please carefully check for symptoms in the next few weeks. Call your general practitioner immediately if you start to feel unwell. Even if you are in doubt.
- Do you have any blisters on your body? Call your GP. Especially if the blisters began in your face or your pubic region.
- What do you do if you have mpox? Self-isolate at home until you have recovered completely. This will help prevent the spread of the virus. As long as you have symptoms, you can spread the virus.
- On the Soa Aids Nederland website you can find answers to questions about mpox
- Go to the Man tot Man website for tips on how to reduce your chances of contracting mpox
This is what the the Municipal Health Service GGD does
Testing and contact tracing
If you suspect that you also have an STI, please contact the Centre for Sexual Health to schedule a test. If you have mpox, we will begin contact tracing.
Contact information
- If you have any questions about mpox, you can call the STI/AIDS hotline 0900 – 2042040 (€ 0,10 ct p/m), Monday to Wednesday between 9.30 and 15.30 and Thursday and Friday between 13.30 and 15.30.
- Or call the General Infectious Diseases team at GGD Amsterdam Public Health Service: 020 555 9390 (from Monday to Friday between 9.00 and 12.00 h)
Further information
National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM): Mpox