Back to Top

Monkeypox Resources

Loyola University New Orleans is currently responding to monkeypox in accordance with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). 

Testing for monkeypox is available at Loyola Student Health Services, or at any Ochsner Urgent Care in the area.

For questions or to schedule an appointment, contact Student Health:

  • Call 504-865-3326
  • Available Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. 

You can also use Ochsner Connected Anywhere services available 24/7.  

CDC Monkeypox Information

What is monkeypox?

Monkeypox (MPV) is a virus that spreads between people through direct contact with an infectious person that has a rash, scabs, or through bodily fluids. It can also be spread by respiratory secretions during prolonged face-to-face contact, or intimate physical contact such as kissing, cuddling, or intercourse. 

What are the symptoms of monkeypox?

A person with MPV is considered contagious as soon as symptoms develop and these symptoms can occur 1–2 weeks after your exposure to the virus.

Symptoms can include:

  • Fever
  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • Headache
  • Chills
  • Muscle aches
  • Back pain
  • Exhaustion
  • Rash that can look like pimples or blisters that appears on the face, inside the mouth and on other parts of the body like hands, feet, chest, genitals, or anus

How can I prevent monkeypox?

Avoid skin-to-skin contact with people that have a rash. Don’t share drinks and food with other people. (This will also prevent you from getting other contagious infections such as mononucleosis and strep throat.) Wash your hands frequently or use hand sanitizer. Do not handle clothes, bedding or towels of a known MPV patient.  

Is a monkeypox vaccine available?

There is an MPV vaccine available to the public. We will have a limited supply of monkeypox vaccines available to eligible students on Monday, September 19, 2022. Loyola will prioritize vaccine appointments for community members who have known exposure to the virus and those who meet any of the eligibility criteria outlined by the Louisiana Department of Health. If you think you may be eligible and would like to make an appointment to get vaccinated, please complete this form.

Check with the Louisiana Department of Health for additional locations. Vaccines are by appointment only.