Monkeypox: What happens if I am diagnosed with monkeypox?
If you are diagnosed with monkeypox, you will need to isolate.
Individuals who live off campus will need to isolate in their residences.
Campus residents should contact Housing at dosmazikcare@vanderbilt.edu if they are diagnosed with monkeypox. Campus residents will be moved to isolation housing and may be supported by Housing and Residential Experience, the Student Health Center, and other offices in the Student Care Network.
The CDC provides a variety of tips and prevention practices for those who need to isolate. These include, but are not limited to:
- While symptomatic, remain isolated in the home and away from others unless it is necessary to see a healthcare provider or for an emergency. This includes avoiding close or physical contact with people or animals. Cover the lesions, wear a well-fitting mask, and avoid public transportation when leaving the home as required for medical care or an emergency.
- While a rash persists 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 secretions while interacting with others.
Until all signs and symptoms of monkeypox 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.
- Wash hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, especially after direct contact with the rash.
Monkeypox symptoms usually start within 3 weeks of exposure to the virus. Individuals are infectious from the time symptoms start until the rash has healed, all scabs have fallen off, and a fresh layer of skin has formed, typically 2-4 weeks. More information can be found here.