In Washington state: On May 27, 2022, DOH and Public Health Seattle-King County confirmed a case of monkeypox virus infection in King County.
Washington Department of Health (WADOH) confirmed there have been no reported deaths in U.S. during the current outbreak. BFHD, WADOH and the CDC investigating the first probable case of monkeypox in Eastern Washington (Benton County).
Click Here: To View the current status in counties across Washington State
In the United States: For US cases visit https://www.cdc.gov/poxvirus/monkeypox/response/2022/us-map.html.
What you need to know
Monkeypox is a viral disease not often seen in the United States, but cases are on the rise across the country and Washington State.
It can cause a rash that looks like bumps, blisters or ulcers. Some people have flu-like illness before the rash develops. Anyone can get monkeypox. The virus spreads during close, physical contact.
Most people recover in 2–4 weeks, but the disease can be serious, especially for children and people who are immune compromised or pregnant.
Monkeypox Outbreak in U.S.
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) data, the first case of monkeypox in Washington State was confirmed on May 27, 2022. Due to its presence in the state, Benton-Franklin Health District (BFHD) is encouraging everyone to learn about the disease and for anyone with symptoms of monkeypox or who has been in close contact with someone with monkeypox to contact a health care provider for evaluation.
How does it spread?
Monkeypox is spread in several ways but typically requires very close contact with a symptomatic person. It can be transmitted by:
- Direct skin-to-skin contacts with the infectious rash or blisters, scabs, or body fluids. This is especially true with close intimate contact. (at this time it is not known if it can be spread through semen or vaginal fluids)
- Contact with virus-contaminated items, such as bedding, towels, clothing, and surfaces, or contact with objects used during sex
- Respiratory droplets during direct and prolonged face to face contact such as with kissing, cuddling, or during sex
- Pregnant people can spread the virus to their fetus through the placenta
Monkeypox can spread from the time the rash appears until the rash is fully healed, and new skin is present.
Humans have been known to get Monkeypox from contact with infected animals either by being scratched or bitten by the animal or by preparing or eating meat or products from the infected animal.
Symptoms
The time from exposure to the start of symptoms is usually 7-14 days but can range from 5-21 days.
Initial symptoms include:
- Fever
- Headache
- Muscle aches
- Backache
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Discomfort
- Chills
- Exhaustion
A few days later a rash will appear. It typically appears on the face, arms, legs, and hands. It also could appear in other areas such as genitals, especially if contact occurred during sex. The rash will turn into raised bumps that fill with fluid. The rash eventually scabs over, and the scabs fall off and new skin appears. Most people recover in 2-4 weeks.
Persons suspected of exposure to Monkeypox and awaiting confirmatory testing, should isolate themselves at home. If they have a rash or other symptoms, they should be in a separate room or area of the house away from other household members and pets.
Treatment
Monkeypox and smallpox are genetically similar, therefore the same antivirals used to treat smallpox may be used to treat Monkeypox. Many people will recover well without any treatment at all. However, for individuals with weakened immune systems, medical providers may order antiviral medication.
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