DDPHE Blog: Mpox in Denver

DDPHE Blog: Mpox in Denver

Published on August 17, 2026

Mpox continues to circulate in Colorado, including Denver. Vaccination is one of the best ways to protect yourself, especially if you have been exposed to mpox or are at higher risk for exposure.

Get vaccinated

The mpox vaccine, Jynneos, can help prevent mpox and reduce the severity of illness if you do get sick. The vaccine is given in two doses at least 28 days apart. For the best protection, get your second dose even if it has been more than 28 days since your first dose.

Vaccination is recommended for people who have had close contact with someone with mpox or who may be at higher risk for exposure. This includes people who have certain types of intimate or sexual contact that may increase their risk of exposure.

If you have already received two doses, additional doses are not recommended at this time except in very specific circumstances.

Find mpox vaccine information and providers in Colorado.

Know the symptoms

Mpox can cause a rash or bumps that may appear on the hands, feet, chest, face, mouth, genitals or rectum. The rash may look like pimples or blisters and can be painful or itchy.

Other symptoms can include:

• Fever
• Chills
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Exhaustion
• Headache
• Muscle aches
• Sore throat, congestion or cough

Symptoms usually begin within 21 days after exposure. People with mpox can spread the virus from the start of symptoms until the rash has fully healed and new skin has formed, which typically takes 2-4 weeks.

Reduce your risk

Mpox primarily spreads through close, physical contact with someone who has mpox. This can include touching a rash, bumps or lesions, as well as intimate contact such as kissing, cuddling or sex.

To reduce your risk:

• Avoid close, skin-to-skin contact with someone who has a rash that looks like mpox.
• Do not touch another person's rash or scabs.
• Avoid sharing bedding, towels, clothing or other materials used by someone with mpox.
• If you have symptoms, avoid close contact with others and talk with a health care provider.

Brief interactions without physical contact are unlikely to spread mpox.

Get tested and seek treatment

If you develop a new rash or bumps and think you may have been exposed to mpox, get tested-even if you have been vaccinated or have had mpox before. Contact your health care provider or a sexual health clinic for testing. Find local mpox testing information.

Most people recover from mpox without special treatment. Treatment, including the antiviral medication TPOXX (tecovirimat), may be recommended for people at higher risk of severe illness or those with severe disease.

For information about mpox vaccines, testing and treatment, visit the DDPHE's mpox webpage.

• Public Health & Environment