Ways to Avoid Monkeypox, According to the CDC

(CNN) — The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) published on friday ways to limit exposure to monkeypox with regard to sexual activity and social gatherings, saying they are temporary measures to “slow the spread of monkeypox until the vaccine supply is adequate.”

The agency first encourages open communication, such as exchanging contact information with new partners and talking to them about possible symptoms of monkeypox.

The CDC also suggests limiting the number of sexual partners and other methods of safe sex, such as masturbating together, virtual sex, and clothed sex.

The best way to stay protected if someone thinks they may have the virus is to avoid sex of any kind, kissing, or touching, especially on an area with a rash. “Don’t share things like towels, fetish items, sex toys, and toothbrushes,” and make sure those items are cleaned after sex. Condoms can protect certain areas of the body, but they don’t prevent all exposure to the virus, the agency warns.

People who have a new or unexplained rash or other possible symptoms of monkeypox should avoid close contact until they have seen a health care provider or been to a clinic. Avoid gatherings, especially those that involve skin-to-skin contact.

Events where attendees are fully clothed are safer than those where intimate contact is more likely. The virus is also more likely to spread in closed spaces where there is anonymous sexual contact with anonymous partners, such as back rooms, saunas, and sex clubs.

CDC officials have similarly advised in interviews and briefings over the past few weeks, but the new website consolidates the recommendations for easy reference.