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Mpox Patient Isolation Procedures

Patient Isolation Procedures

In non-health care settings:

Current data suggest people can spread mpox from the time symptoms start until all symptoms have resolved, including full healing of the rash with formation of a fresh layer of skin. Ideally, people with mpox would remain in isolation for the duration of illness, which typically lasts two to four weeks.

For person with Mpox in non-health care settings who are unable to remain fully isolated at home for the duration of their illness they should do the following:

  • While symptomatic with a fever or any respiratory symptoms, including sore throat, nasal congestion, or cough, remain isolated in the home and away from others unless it is necessary to see a health care provider or for an emergency.
    • This includes avoiding close or physical contact with other people and animals.
    • Cover the lesions, wear a well-fitting mask (more information below), and avoid public transportation when leaving the home as required for medical care or an emergency.
  • While a rash persists but in the absence of a fever or respiratory symptoms.
    • Cover all parts of the rash with clothing, gloves, and/or bandages.
    • Wear a well-fitting mask to prevent the wearer from spreading oral and respiratory secretions when interacting with others until the rash and all other symptoms have resolved.
    • Masks should fit closely on the face without any gaps along the edges or around the nose and be comfortable when worn properly over the nose and mouth.
  • Until all signs and symptoms of mpox illness have fully resolved.
    • Do not share items that have been worn or handled with other people or animals. Launder or disinfect items that have been worn or handled and surfaces that have been touched by a lesion.
    • Avoid close physical contact, including sexual and/or close intimate contact, with other people.
    • Avoid sharing utensils or cups. Items should be cleaned and disinfected before use by others.
    • Avoid crowds and congregate settings.
    • Wash hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, especially after direct contact with the rash.

In health care settings:

These recommendations do not apply in health care settings, such as hospitals and outpatient clinics. Instead, health care providers should follow CDC’s Infection Prevention and Control of Mpox in Health Care Settings. Congregate care settings, such as correctional facilities and homeless shelters, should follow CDC’s Preventing Mpox Spread in Congregate Settings.

For more information, visit: https://www.cdc.gov/poxvirus/mpox/clinicians/isolation-procedures.html