Poxviruses

Overview

Poxviruses spread globally through contact with infected animals, people, or contaminated objects. While certain poxviruses, like smallpox, no longer exist naturally, cases of other poxviruses, like mpox and borealpox have been reported in Alaska and can cause disease.

Chickenpox is caused the varicella-zoster virus and is not a poxvirus.

Symptoms & diagnosis

Poxviruses cause the formation of lesions, skin nodules, or a widespread rash when a person or animal is infected.

Treatment

Antiviral drugs may be recommended for people who are more likely to get severely ill, like patients with weakened immune systems.

Prevention

Poxvirus prevention includes getting vaccinated, avoiding contact with sick people and animals, and washing hands frequently.

Reporting

Health care providers and laboratories are not required to report pox viruses unless there is a public health risk or outbreak.