Monkeypox Prevention Steps

Take the following three steps to prevent getting monkeypox:

1. Avoid close, skin-to-skin contact with people who have a rash that looks like monkeypox.

   • Do not touch the rash or scabs of a person with monkeypox.
   • Do not kiss, hug, cuddle or have sex with someone with monkeypox.

2. Avoid contact with objects and materials that a person with monkeypox has used.

   • Do not share eating utensils or cups with a person with monkeypox.
   • Do not handle or touch the bedding, towels, or clothing of a person with monkeypox.

3. Wash your hands often.

   • Wash your hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, especially before eating or touching your face and after you use the bathroom.

In Central and West Africa, avoid contact with animals that can spread monkeypox virus, usually rodents and primates. Also, avoid sick or dead animals, as well as bedding or other materials they have touched.