MonkeyPox Awareness

MonkeyPox Awareness

Learn more about MonkeyPox. Its causes, symptoms and treatments, along with prevention and vaccination information. 

Monkeypox, what is it?

Viral infection with a rash that can be easily passed from person to person through direct or close contact with people and/or contaminated materials.

monkeypox infographic

How does it spread?

  • Contact with monkeypox rash, scabs, or body fluids including during intimate and sexual contact

  • Touching objects, fabrics (clothing, bedding, or towels) & surfaces that have been used by someone with Monkeypox.

  • Contact with respiratory secretions

Symptoms

  • rash or sores on the hands, feet, mouth and genitals lasting 14-28 days 
  • fever, chills, swollen lymph nodes, headache, muscle pain, joint pain, back pain and exhaustion 

Causes

  • direct physical contact, including sexual contact
  • contact with monkeypox skin lesions or scabs

Treatment

  • stay home and call HealthLink at 811  
  • self-isolate, cover scabs/lesions, wear a mask and avoid physical contact with people and pets 

Did you know?

Anyone can get infected and spread monkeypox regardless of sex, gender, sexual orientation, or race. 

Prevention

  • temporarily minimize the number of sexual partners you have and continue to follow safe sex practices while the monkeypox outbreak is ongoing
  • clean and disinfect surfaces regularly 
  • wash and/or sanitize your hands regularly 
  • avoid contact with individuals who have monkeypox 
  • don’t share personal items with others 
  • wear a mask if experiencing or around others experiencing symptoms

Vaccine

You may be eligible to receive the Imvamune vaccine if you are:

  • 18+ years 
  • higher risk of exposure 
  • having more than one sexual partner 
  • attending or working at places with more skin-to-skin contact 
  • having had an STI in the last 6 months 
  • If you have had close contact with someone with Monkeypox in the last four days

You are no longer eligible once symptoms start. Learn more here.

people with a mask and band aide on arm

Can anyone get the vaccine?

Due to limited availability, anyone who is eligible at this time and is interested in receiving the monkeypox vaccine must call Health Link at 1-866-301-2668 to review eligibility and book an appointment.

More information

Resources

Monkeypox and UCalgary

  1. Graduate Student's association

    The GSA supports UCalgary graduate students to succeed academically and socially through valued programs and services and responsive communication channels.

    Contact GSA

  2. Students' Union

    The SU is your advocate, activist, and representative and serves to protect undergraduate student interests with the university and all levels of government.

    Connect with SU

  3. Q Center

    Provide a safe space for the LGBTQ community and their allies.

    Learn more

  4. Student Wellness Services

    The on-campus resource for health and wellness support, with a wide range of service options.

    Learn more