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.

The number of lesions a person may have can vary, ranging from just one to several, and they can appear anywhere on the body, including the face, mouth, trunk, arms, hands, genitals or perianal region.

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?
If you have symptoms and signs consistent with the disease, you are advised to contact sexually transmitted infection screening centres (such as GAT centres) and/or seek advice and assessment from A&E services via the SNS 24 helpline (808 24 24 24). If you suspect you may have the condition, you should avoid close contact with other people and wash your hands regularly.

What if I’ve been in contact with someone with Mpox?
If you have already been vaccinated with two doses, watch out for symptoms (these may appear up to 2 to 4 weeks after exposure). If any symptoms develop, you should be assessed at a medical appointment.
If you have only had one dose of the vaccine or have not been vaccinated, you can receive the Mpox vaccine as a post-exposure measure. This should ideally be administered within the first 4 days after exposure, but can be given up to 14 days later.
If you have any questions, you can contact sexually transmitted infection screening centres (such as GAT centres) or the SNS 24 helpline.

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 lowers the likelihood of severe symptoms, but it does not offer absolute protection. It is still important to watch out for symptoms if you have been in contact with someone with Mpox and to seek medical advice if you develop any symptoms.

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.