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Warning-sign checks

Mpox: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Call emergency services for trouble breathing, severe confusion, a seizure, collapse, inability to wake normally, or other signs of critical illness.

    Do not delay emergency care because of concern about isolation arrangements; tell the service that mpox is possible.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Contact a healthcare or sexual health service promptly if you develop a new unexplained blistering or ulcer-like rash, particularly after close contact with someone who has mpox.

    Call ahead before attending in person so the service can reduce possible exposure to others.

    Prompt assessment is also important if you are pregnant, have a weakened immune system, or have lesions near an eye.

    Seek same-day advice for worsening pain, spreading redness, pus, persistent fever, reduced urination, or difficulty eating and drinking.

    Get urgent medical help for:

    • Eye pain, new light sensitivity, blurred vision, or an eye lesion
    • Severe rectal, genital, or abdominal pain
    • Repeated vomiting or signs of dehydration
    • Rapid worsening in someone with major immune suppression

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Mpox. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.