M-pox, previously known as Monkeypox, is rapidly spreading around the world, primarily among MSM ー men who have sex with men.

There are cases of asymptomatic infections in Japan, where vaccines are not widespread.

In fact, participating in research is the only way to go through m-pox test currently in Japan.

We are able to provide m-pox testing for MSM from August 1, 2023 through the research conducted by the National Center for Global Health and Medicine.

If you have any questions, please contact us through the official LINE above.

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What is M-Pox

M-pox originally had reports of onset in West and Central Africa.

It was discovered in 1958, and human infection was confirmed in 1970. Until now, the mainly known routes of infection to humans was from animals.

Reports even from non-endemic countries have been increasing since May 2022.

The current m-pox is konwn to differ from previous m-pox in two points. Firstly, the increase in reports in both endemic and other countries is unprecedented. And secondly, the mode of transmission is mostly human to human sexual contact, especially among MSM.

The WHO, World Health Organization, declared it an “International Public Health Emergency of Concern” as the spread of infection continues.

In Japan, the first patient was reported on July 25, 2022.

Since 2023, the number of cases has been increasing, and 188 cases have been confirmed in Japan as of July 7, 2023. However, the number of cases only includes those with symptoms, not those who are infected but asymptomatic. The number of cases may have been increasing continuously.

Infection Routes and Symptoms

The following are considered to be the routes of human-to-human transmission of m-pox:

According to previous reports, the incubation period of m-pox is 5 to 21 days (usually 7 to 14 days).

After the incubation period, symptoms begin like a common cold, followed by fever, headaches, swollen lymph nodes and muscle aches for a few days, then characteristic rashes (bumps) appear.

Previous cases of m-pox started with rashes on the face that spread throughout the body. But the outbreak since May 2022 especially in Europe and America has shown that rashes are often seen in the genitals and anus. Also, reportedly rashes may appear before flu-like symptoms.

In particular, it may be difficult to distinguish from other diseases’ rashes (such as measles, chickenpox, herpes, bacterial skin infections, scabies, etc.) in the early stages.

Those with symptoms that may indicate m-pox such as the one listed above may not be tested at our clinic.

If you have any questions, please contact us via our official LINE account.

Progression and Treatment

M-pox heals on its own with all rashes becoming scabs in about 2 to 4 weeks after onset. Most cases are mild to moderate and heal naturally.

If it worsens, it can cause encephalitis, secondary bacterial infections in skin lesions, dehydration, bronchopneumonia, sepsis and/or other serious conditions.

There is no specific treatment for m-pox, and symptomatic treatment is provided to alleviate symptoms.

The smallpox vaccine is believed to be effective in preventing or reducing the severity of m-pox after exposure to the virus.

In Japan, clinical research systems are being established to administer vaccines to those who may have been exposed to the m-pox virus. Clinical research systems are also being prepared to administer therapeutic drugs to patients who have developed m-pox.

Tesing Price and Process

We will conduct m-pox testing along with gonorrhea and chlamydia tests simultaneously.

Samples will be collected from the genitals, throat and anus and be submitted for testing. You will be tested with gargle liquid, urine and anal swabs.

The result will be sent via e-mail.