DHS Confirms First Cases of Mpox in 2026, Shares Prevention Resources

DHS Confirms First Cases of Mpox in 2026, Shares Prevention Resources

Cluster of mpox cases identified in southeastern Wisconsin with an increase of infections reported nationwide

The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) encourages Wisconsinites to take steps to prevent mpox after cases were recently confirmed in southeastern and northern Wisconsin. Although mpox has been circulating at low levels since 2022, current surveillance data show an uptick of infections nationwide in recent weeks. As of May 3, 2026, 535 cases have been confirmed across the United States, and as of May 26, there have been five confirmed mpox cases in Wisconsin this year.

Mpox is not common but can be a serious virus spread through intimate, face-to-face contact, such as talking or breathing closely for long periods; sustained skin-to-skin contact; and contact with items that have been contaminated with the fluids or sores of a person with mpox.

Mpox symptoms usually include a new, unexplained rash that develops into hard, round, fluid or pus-filled skin lesions. Some people with mpox may develop fever, swollen lymph nodes, muscle aches, or chills. The mpox rash typically develops within one to three days after fever, however, some people may experience rash or sores first.

Although the risk to the general public is low, DHS encourages Wisconsinites at higher risk for mpox exposure to talk to a trusted health care provider about vaccination. Providers may recommend a person get vaccinated if they are:

• Gay, bisexual, or a man who has sex with men including people who were assigned female at birth and have had more than on sex partner in the last six months.
• Traveling and have a sexual exposure with someone in a different area.
• In close contact with someone with mpox, including health care workers where exposure is possible.

Additionally, all Wisconsinites can take the following steps to prevent mpox infection:

• Know the symptoms of mpox.
• Watch their and their partner's bodies for changes, such as rashes or skin lesions.
• Have open and honest conversations with partners about mpox, STIs, and HIV.

Anyone who thinks they were recently exposed to mpox should contact a health care provider to talk about whether they should get vaccinated. Monitor health for fever, chills, swollen lymph nodes and new, unexplained rashes and contact a health care provider if one occurs. People who become ill should avoid contact with others until receiving health care.

DHS continues to work closely with local public health and health care providers to monitor mpox activity across Wisconsin. DHS urges all Wisconsinites to contact a doctor or nurse immediately if they develop any unexpected skin lesions or rashes. For free, confidential support finding health care and community resources near you, dial 211 or 877-947-2211, or text your ZIP code to 898-211. Find resources online at 211Wisconsin.org.