Should Parents Worry About Mpox?

Headlines about a rise in cases of mpox around the world and in the U.S. can be scary. If you’re a parent, you may be wondering what this news means for you and your children. At this point, experts agree the risk of mpox to the vast majority of people is low. Still, it’s understandable parents would be concerned about mpox, and want to know what the risks are to their children—now or in the future.

What Is Mpox?

Mpox is an infection caused by orthopoxvirus, and is in the same family as smallpox. While mpox causes bumpy lesions, it’s not in the same virus family as chickenpox, which is caused by the varicella virus.  

The mpox virus was first discovered in Africa in 1958. Although it was discovered in monkeys—which is how it got its name—it’s not clear how it originated in monkeys. Mpox is also commonly seen in non-human primates and in rodents, such as squirrels and rats.

Typically, mpox is a less severe and less contagious infection than smallpox. Some individuals can experience serious illness from mpox, particularly children under the age of 8, pregnant people, and people who are immunosuppressed. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) points out mpox is much less contagious than COVID-19.

Mpox is spread from prolonged contact with an animal or human who is infected. It is mostly spread through close contact with respiratory fluids, lesions, and body fluids. After you are exposed to mpox, it can take about 6-13 days for symptoms to develop.

The same vaccine used for smallpox is effective against mpox. Most people aren’t routinely vaccinated against smallpox anymore, but if you are exposed to mpox, the smallpox vaccine may offer you protection, according to the CDC.

Symptoms of Mpox in Kids

Mpox symptoms are similar in both kids and adults, says Oladele A. Ogunseitan, PhD, professor of population health & disease at the University of California, Irvine. The main signs of infection are fluid-filled lesions on the skin, Dr. Ogunseitan explains. However, the infection doesn’t start off with those telltale bumps. “The period of virus invasion of the body is characterized by fever, headache, swollen lymph nodes, muscle pain, and lack of energy,” he describes.

The mpox rash has a typical progression of its own, explains Pierrette Mimi Poinsett, MD, a pediatrician and consultant for Mom Loves Best. “Initially, the rash is flat spots that progress from raised bumps to fluid-filled blisters,” she says. “Then pus white-yellow filled sores, then finally scabs.” Importantly, Dr. Poinsett notes, a person with mpox is contagious from the moment they have initial symptoms until the spots are completely scabbed over.

Symptoms of mpox typically resolve within two to four weeks, as reported by the CDC.

What Are the Risks of Mpox to Children?

Most cases of mpox are confined to central and west Africa, but sometimes outbreaks outside the region happen. The current outbreak has spread throughout the world, including in the U.S. The CDC notes the risk to the overall U.S. population is currently low.

Scott Pangonis, MD, MS, FAAP, pediatric infectious disease physician at Akron Children’s Hospital says at this time, the chance that your child will become infected with mpox is unlikely. “Luckily, there have been no U.S. cases of children becoming infected,” he points out. Still, children can become infected. “Children make up a large number of the cases in Africa where mpox is more common,” Dr. Pangonis points out.

How Worried Should Parents Be About Mpox?

It's important to reiterate that the current risk to all Americans, including kids, is considered low. Dr. Poinsett says that while it’s true there are currently cases of community transmission of the virus in the U.S., this is only happening between people who have lengthy, close personal contact with an infected individual. “Parents should be aware of the signs and symptoms of mpox but not excessively worry,” she assures.

Dr. Pangonis agrees. “I do not think parents should worry about mpox at this time given the lack of cases in kids,” he says. At the same time, parents should stay up-to-date on the news, as things may change as the outbreak progresses. “My concern level as a parent would rise if the number of cases in my area increased,” Dr. Pangonis added.

Do Parents Need to Take Precautions Against Mpox?

Although the risk of you or your child contracting mpox is currently low, if you were in contact with someone who had mpox, it’s important that you take precautions, says Dr. Ogunseitan.

“Anyone who thinks that might have been exposed should quarantine and practice the same hygienic practices that we are now used to in response to COVID-19, including washing hands, and social distancing,” Dr. Ogunseitan explains. If someone in your household comes into direct contact with mpox, vaccination may also be recommended. This is something you should speak to your healthcare provider about for more information.

If you hear of local outbreaks in your area, or your child’s daycare or school, many of the common sense hygiene methods used to prevent other infections, including COVID-19, will also help with mpox, says Dr. Ogunseitan.

Good hand hygiene is particularly important with mpox since it’s often transmitted through respiratory and bodily fluids. The CDC recommends washing your hands with soap and water or using hand sanitizer, especially if you think you may have come into contact with an animal or human who is infected with mpox.