CHW release, Aug. 3, 2022 – We regret to report that Coos County has its first confirmed case of the Monkeypox Virus. Symptoms of monkeypox can include: • Fever; • Headache; • Muscle aches and backache; • Swollen lymph nodes; • Chills; • Exhaustion; • Respiratory symptoms (e.g. sore throat, nasal congestion, or cough); • A rash that may be located on or near the genitals or anus but could also be on other areas like the hands, feet, chest, face, or mouth. o The rash will go through several stages, including scabs, before healing. o The rash can look like pimples or blisters and may be painful or itchy. You may experience all or only a few symptoms: • Sometimes, people get a rash first, followed by other symptoms. Others only experience a rash. • Most people with monkeypox will get a rash. • Some people have developed a rash before (or without) other symptoms. Monkeypox symptoms usually start within 3 weeks of exposure to the virus. If someone has flu-like symptoms, they will usually develop a rash 1-4 days later. Monkeypox can be spread from the time symptoms start until the rash has healed, all scabs have fallen off, and a fresh layer of skin has formed. The illness typically lasts 2-4 weeks. While there is a vaccine, it is not widely available and reserved for people who have had close contact with someone diagnosed with monkeypox within the past 2 weeks. Take the following steps to prevent getting monkeypox: • Avoid close, skin-to-skin contact with people who have a rash that looks like monkeypox. o Do not touch the rash or scabs of a person with monkeypox. o Do not kiss, hug, cuddle or have sex with someone with monkeypox. • Avoid contact with objects and materials that a person with monkeypox has used. o Do not share eating utensils or cups with a person with monkeypox. o Do not handle or touch the bedding, towels, or clothing of a person with monkeypox. • Wash your hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, especially before eating or touching your face and after you use the bathroom.
