Mpox, formerly known as Monkeypox, is a viral disease that spreads through close physical contact. Its transmission patterns, which are intimately tied to the presence of a rash or sores, have raised questions about the risk associated with intimate activities like kissing. This article examines the risk of Mpox transmission through kissing and details the established routes of infection.
The Direct Risk of Transmission Through Kissing
Kissing presents a direct pathway for Mpox transmission, particularly when a person has active lesions in or around their mouth. Transmission has been documented in cases where oral contact occurred with an individual who had a crusted oral lesion. The primary concern is the direct transfer of viral particles from an infectious lesion to the mucosal surfaces or broken skin of the other person.
Mpox virus DNA has been detected in the saliva of infected patients, sometimes at levels comparable to those found in skin lesions. This suggests the mouth can harbor a high viral concentration. Kissing facilitates the direct exchange of these oral fluids and any viral particles present. Avoiding all kissing and oral contact is a primary recommendation if either person has symptoms or a known infection.
Established Primary Routes of Mpox Transmission
The most common and highest-risk pathway for human-to-human transmission is direct, close, skin-to-skin contact with the characteristic rash, scabs, or bodily fluids of an infected person. This often occurs during intimate physical activities, including sexual contact. Prolonged contact allows the virus to enter the body through broken skin or mucous membranes. The fluid and pus within the sores contain high concentrations of the virus, making contact with them highly infectious.
Transmission also occurs through prolonged face-to-face contact via large respiratory droplets. These droplets travel short distances, meaning transmission typically requires being in close proximity to an infected person for an extended period. The virus can also spread indirectly through contact with contaminated materials. This indirect method, known as fomite transmission, includes unwashed bedding, towels, clothing, or sex toys used by an infected person.
Steps for Safer Close Contact
To minimize the risk of Mpox transmission, the most effective step is to avoid close physical contact with anyone who has an unexplained rash, sores, or other symptoms. This avoidance includes refraining from hugging, cuddling, massaging, kissing, and sexual activity until any potential infection is ruled out or fully healed. An infected person remains contagious until all their scabs have fallen off and a fresh layer of intact skin has formed beneath, a process that can take two to four weeks.
If symptoms develop, immediately self-isolate and contact a healthcare provider for testing. While isolating, cover all rashes with clothing or bandages. Wear a well-fitting mask when around others, especially if oral lesions or a sore throat are present. Maintaining strict hand hygiene by frequently washing with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer is also recommended.
Additionally, cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces and shared items, such as household objects and linens, helps reduce the risk of indirect transmission.