Mpox (formerly known as Monkeypox) is a rare disease that is caused by infection with mpox virus, of which there are two distinct clades (genetic types) identified. Mpox belongs to the Orthopox genus, which also includes the viruses that cause smallpox and cowpox. Mpox is of public health concern because the illness is similar to smallpox and can be spread from infected humans, animals, and materials contaminated with the virus.

The holiday season brings people together to reconnect, celebrate and share festive traditional dishes. These meals can be memorable, and the Portsmouth Health Department offers the following food safety tips to help you prepare your meal safely so that your holiday isn’t spent dealing with foodborne illness.  

Foodborne pathogens can cause severe and even life-threatening illnesses. Easy-to-do, safe food handling practices protect everyone from getting sick.