Caring for a loved one with mpox: what can you do?
If someone in your family is sick with mpox, here are some simple steps you can take to help them recover and keep everyone safe:
- Pick one person to be the main caregiver – ideally, someone who is healthy and doesn’t have any ongoing health conditions.
- Create a separate space for the person with mpox. If possible, let them stay in a separate room, or use a curtain or screen to give them their own area.
- Wear disposable gloves and protective clothing when you need to help them, especially if you’re cleaning or touching anything they’ve used.
- Remind the person with mpox and caregivers not to share personal items like clothes or towels with others. This will help stop the virus from spreading in your home.
- Keep the space clean. The person with mpox or the main caregiver should regularly disinfect their room or area to prevent the virus from spreading
- Handle bedding carefully by lifting and rolling it rather than shaking it, to avoid spreading the virus through the air.
- Clean floors by damp mopping with a mild disinfectant instead of sweeping, to reduce the risk of spreading the virus.
- Wash bedding, towels, and clothes separately from the rest of the family’s laundry, using soap and hot water.
- Safely dispose of waste. Any trash, like used tissues or gloves, should be put in strong, securely tied bags.
- Cover furniture that can’t be washed, like sofas or chairs, to prevent contamination.
If you can’t fully isolate yourself or the person who is sick, take extra precautions: wear a well-fitting mask, cover any rashes or lesions when you’re around others, clean shared bathrooms or spaces after each use, and avoid sharing items like towels or dishes.
