Monkeypox Confirmed in County
Monkeypox is just one of the global viruses that were suppressed during the height of the COVID pandemic that is now flaring up again.
Monkeypox is not new and does not spread as easily as COVID-19. The current risk of getting Monkeypox is low. However, public health experts worry that the virus could become a larger, persistent problem if not controlled now.
Alameda County Health last week announced that a resident within Alameda County has tested positive for Orthopox and is suspected to be infected with the Monkeypox virus. The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) conducted testing for Orthopox and results from testing by the CDC confirmed the Monkeypox infection.
The resident who tested positive had close contact with someone who recently also tested positive for Orthopox. Federal privacy law prevents the county from sharing additional information, a spokesperson said.
“We are prepared to respond to this and possibly future cases,” said Alameda County Health Officer Dr. Nicholas Moss. “Health officials are monitoring updates from the CDC and CDPH as the situation evolves.”
Monkeypox spreads through direct, close contact with an infected person. The virus enters the body through broken skin (even if not visible), the respiratory tract, or mucous membranes (eyes, nose, or mouth) after skin or sexual contact, from bodily fluids, or contact with contaminated clothing or linens. There are eight probable/confirmed cases in California and 40 cases in the United States.
Residents should consider the risk factors associated with Monkeypox. Patients infected with the monkeypox virus may experience flu-like symptoms and a rash on their face, extremities, or genital area. While rare and, in most cases mild, some Monkeypox infections can lead to severe illness. Treatment and vaccines are available for people who are exposed.
“It is vital that a person who suspects they have Monkeypox or are experiencing symptoms contact their health care provider right away,” said Dr. Kavita Trivedi, Alameda County Communicable Disease Controller. “We are ready to receive more reports from health care providers, provide guidance, connect possible cases to testing, and contact trace.”
And while the mask you wear right now to prevent the spread of COVID is a good deterrent for contracting or spreading Monkeypox, health officials suggest you talk to people you come in close physical contact with about their general health, and the onset of rashes or sores. Officials also suggest you stay aware if traveling to countries where there are outbreaks.