Mpox: information, vaccination and protection

Portugal has recorded an increase in mpox cases. In June 2026, 57 cases of clade I mpox were reported, the highest number among European Union and European Economic Area countries that month.

Mpox is an infectious disease caused by the mpox virus. It is transmitted through skin-to-skin contact or contact between mucous membranes and the skin, and it is virtually impossible to prevent transmission during sex. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent mpox infection.

HOW TO GET VACCINATED AGAINST MPOX

The vaccine is free and available by telephone appointment:

GAT Checkpoint LX (Príncipe Real)
Travessa do Monte do Carmo, 2 - 1200-277 Lisbon
+351 910 693 158 (appointments)

GAT Intendente
Rua Antero de Quental, 8-A - 1150-043 Lisbon
+351 919 613 092 (appointments)

Other vaccination sites in Portugal
Vaccination is available at public health centres and hospitals throughout the country. To access vaccination in other locations, a self-referral form must be submitted to the Directorate-General of Health.

ABOUT MPOX

What is mpox virus infection?
Mpox virus infection is a zoonotic disease, which means it can be transmitted from animals to humans. It can also be transmitted between people.

What are the symptoms of mpox virus infection in humans?
The most common symptoms are fever, severe headache, muscle aches, back pain, tiredness and swollen lymph nodes, followed by the gradual appearance of a rash affecting the skin and mucous membranes.

Skin lesions usually begin one to three days after the onset of fever and may be flat or slightly raised, with clear or yellowish fluid. They may then ulcerate and form scabs, which later dry out and fall off. The number of lesions can vary. They tend to appear on the face but may spread to the rest of the body, including the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. They may also appear in the mouth, on the genitals and around the eyes.

These signs and symptoms usually last between two and four weeks and resolve on their own without treatment.

How is the mpox virus transmitted between people?
People with mpox virus infection can transmit the virus while they have symptoms and until the skin lesions have fully healed, which usually takes between two and four weeks. The virus can be transmitted through close physical contact. Lesions, the clear or purulent fluid they contain and even scabs are particularly infectious, although other bodily fluids may also contain transmissible virus. Contact with contaminated personal clothing, bedding, towels, cutlery, plates or other personal items may also transmit the infection.

People who have close contact with someone who is infected, including healthcare professionals, household members and sexual partners, are therefore at greater risk of contracting the virus.

What should someone do if they think they may have an mpox virus infection?
When symptoms and signs compatible with the disease are present, particularly following close contact with someone who may have an mpox virus infection, it is recommended to contact a sexually transmitted infection screening centre, such as a GAT centre, and/or seek urgent medical care for advice and assessment through the SNS 24 helpline on 808 24 24 24. When mpox is suspected, close contact with other people should be avoided and hands should be washed regularly.

FACTS AND MYTHS

Mpox only affects gay or bisexual men.
False. Anyone can contract mpox through close contact with the virus. Currently, a high proportion of cases identified in Europe occur among men who have sex with men. This should guide targeted, stigma-free prevention responses, but it does not mean that sexual orientation determines who becomes infected.

Mpox is only a sexually transmitted infection.
False. Sexual activity is an important context for transmission, but the virus can also be transmitted through other forms of close physical contact and contaminated objects.

Condoms completely prevent transmission.
False. Condoms help prevent HIV and several sexually transmitted infections, but they do not cover all areas of the skin where lesions may be present or where contact that facilitates transmission may occur.

The vaccine can cause mpox.
False. The vaccine is produced using a modified, non-replicating form of the vaccinia virus and does not cause mpox.

The vaccine prevents mpox transmission.
False. Vaccination reduces the risk and the likelihood of severe symptoms, but it does not provide complete protection. It remains important to be alert to symptoms and seek assessment after a potential exposure.

A person must have many lesions for it to be mpox.
False. Mpox may present as a single lesion or only a few lesions, including in the genital or anal areas or in the mouth.