1st Case Of Monkeypox Reported In Minnesota

MINNEAPOLIS — The Minnesota Department of Health Monday announced the state's first presumptive case of monkeypox virus infection, in an adult in the Twin Cities area.

Initial testing was completed on Saturday at the state public health laboratory. A confirmation test will take place at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offices in Atlanta.

The patient was likely exposed while traveling outside of the country, according to health officials, and the person is currently receiving outpatient care.

The department of health is conducting contact tracing to identify anyone who may be at risk of exposure.

The need for vaccines or antivirals was being evaluated on a case-by-case basis, but the CDC does not currently recommend the broad use of a vaccine.

Monkeypox spreads through sustained skin-to-skin contact, including sexual contact, contact with infectious sores and bodily fluids, contaminated items such as clothing or bedding or respiratory droplets.

"While the threat of monkeypox generally remains low, it’s important that everyone be aware of this disease, so that those at risk can seek medical care and get tested promptly if they believe they have symptoms," said Minnesota Health Commissioner Jan Malcolm.

At least 201 cases of monkeypox/orthopoxvirus have been reported in 26 other U.S. states, according to the CDC. More than 4,100 cases have been reported in 47 countries where the disease is not commonly spread.

Symptoms of monkeypox can include the following.

• Fever, headache, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes.
• A rash that can look like pimples or blisters.

The illness typically lasts two to four weeks. In most cases, people get better without treatment.

Monkeypox can cause the following compications.

• Scars from the sores.
• Pneumonia.
• Death.

People who have monkeypox can spread the virus between the time that symptoms start and when the rash has fully healed.

The MDH provided the following tips to prevent the spread of monkeypox.

• Practice good hand hygiene. Wash hands with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Minimize skin-to-skin contact with individuals who have been exposed to the virus or to those showing a rash or skin sores.
• Avoid contact with any materials such as bedding that has been in direct contact with someone with monkeypox.
• Reach out to a health care provider if symptoms develop as early recognition and testing can help prevent further transmission.