Monkeypox Information

While still rare, monkeypox has been declared a global health emergency due to the unusual spread of cases in multiple countries. We are monitoring the situation and staying in touch with local public health authorities, and we encourage the Kenyon community to stay informed. For the most up-to-date information, we recommend the resources available through the Centers for Disease Control and American College Health Association.

Below are some frequently asked questions to help guide you.

What is monkeypox?

Monkeypox is the name of a disease caused by the monkeypox virus, just like COVID-19 is the name of the disease caused by the SARS-COV2 virus. The similarities end there, however, as monkeypox is from a completely different family of viruses. This means that monkeypox is spread differently from COVID and the chance of monkeypox mutating into something more easily caught and/or more dangerous is a lot lower.

What are the symptoms of monkeypox?

The main symptom is a rash that is commonly on or near the genitals but can be on other areas such as the hands, feet, chest, face or mouth. Other symptoms include fever, chills, swollen lymph nodes, exhaustion, muscle and backache, headache, and respiratory symptoms. The other symptoms can occur before or after the onset of the rash, or not at all. The illness typically lasts 2-4 weeks. It is rarely fatal in the setting of effective healthcare.

How is monkeypox transmitted?

Monkeypox is typically transmitted only with close physical contact, including but not limited to sexual contact. It can also spread by contact with objects or surfaces that have been used by someone with the disease. For more information on how monkeypox spreads, refer to the CDC guidelines.

What precautions should people know about?

Avoid skin-to-skin contact with anyone with a rash that looks like monkeypox and avoid sharing bedding, towels, clothing, utensils or cups with a person with symptoms of monkeypox. Frequent hand washing with soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer is also recommended. Schedule an appointment for a vaccination if you meet the eligibility criteria.

When should you see or call your physician?

If you become aware that someone you have had contact with has been diagnosed with monkeypox or notice a rash or other symptom consistent with the disease as noted above, you should seek medical attention.

Students can receive support services and testing for monkeypox at the Cox Health and Counseling Center by calling 740-427-5525 or emailing health@kenyon.edu.
Faculty and staff should contact their medical provider. If they don’t have a medical provider, they should contact their local public health authority.

Are treatments available for monkeypox?

There is one antiviral medication called Tecovirimat, which is not widely available at this time. Also, administration of a monkeypox vaccine may well reduce symptoms or even prevent the disease even if given after exposure.

Is there a monkeypox vaccine?

There are two types of vaccines that can be used to prevent monkeypox. At this time, these are recommended for people who have a known exposure to someone with monkeypox, especially those who have engaged in sexual activity with someone affected by the virus. Laboratory workers and some other dedicated public health workers are also recommended to get the vaccine.

Can Kenyon test for monkeypox?

Yes, students can be tested by contacting Cox Health and Counseling Center at 740-427-5525 or health@kenyon.edu.

Does Kenyon carry the vaccine?

Kenyon isn't providing or mandating the vaccine at this time due to a global supply shortage necessitating available vaccines be directed to populations who are at greatest risk.

Where can I get the vaccine if needed?

At present the limited national vaccine supply is reserved for counties with high rates of infection/transmission. Kenyon remains in communication with Knox Public Health, and should Knox County elevate to high rates of infection/transmission for monkeypox we will provide updated resources.