Monkeypox Case Confirmed In Mecklenburg County
It was only a matter of time. Last week we told you that the first case of Monkeypox had been reported in North Carolina. Now there is a confirmed Monkeypox…
UNDATED ? MAY 27: In this Centers for Disease Control and Prevention handout graphic, symptoms of one of the first known cases of the monkeypox virus are shown on a patient?s hand May 27, 2003. The CDC said the viral disease monkeypox, thought to be spread by prairie dogs, has been detected in the Americas for the first time with about 20 cases reported in Wisconsin, Illinois, and Indiana.
(Photo Courtesy of CDC/Getty Images)It was only a matter of time. Last week we told you that the first case of Monkeypox had been reported in North Carolina. Now there is a confirmed Monkeypox case in Mecklenburg County. The press release states that Mecklenburg Public Health, the North Carolina Department of Health & Human Services, and the patient's healthcare provider are working to notify anyone who may have been in contact. The patient is isolated at home and his/her identity will be concealed for privacy.
“Although monkeypox infections remain rare, the CDC is reporting that cases continue to rise across the country,” said Dr. Raynard Washington, MCPH director. “It is very important to be aware of the symptoms of monkeypox and to be vigilant. Individuals with concerning rashes should contact their healthcare provider.” Washington also says that it is likely there are other unreported monkeypox cases in Mecklenburg county.
While rare, Monkeypox can be a serious infection. Symptoms include flu-like symptoms, lymph node swelling, and fluid-filled lesions that scab over. Infections usually persist for 2-4 weeks. Monkey Pox is spread by skin-to-skin contact.
How You Can Protect Against Monkeypox
Seek care from a healthcare provider if you develop an unexplained rash, sores or other symptoms. Keep that rash covered and avoid sex or being intimate with anyone until you have been seen by a doctor. You can use standard household cleaners and detergents to sanitize surfaces.
More information can be found on the CDC website:
Signs and Symptoms
How it Spreads
Monkeypox Facts for People Who are Sexually Active
