First Monkeypox Case Identified In Wisconsin, Risk Remains Low: DHS

WISCONSIN — Wisconsin's first case of monkeypox was reported in Dane County this week, the Department of Health Services announced Friday.

The Dane County resident who tested positive is currently isolating and the risk to the general public remains low, the DHS said. While there have been 396 confirmed cases across the country in recent months, the news on Friday is the first confirmed case for Wisconsin.

The Wisconsin DHS said it identified the case of orthopoxvirus, presumed to be monkeypox, on Thursday.

“The number of monkeypox cases continues to rise in the U.S., so it is not a surprise that monkeypox has now been detected in Wisconsin,” said Chief Medical Officer Dr. Ryan Westergaard in a news release. “While it’s likely that additional cases will be found among Wisconsinites, we are relieved that this disease does not spread easily from person to person."

Monkeypox is rare, but can be serious, according to the DHS. Typical signs of the disease include unexplained rashes and skin leisons. Other early symptoms include fever, chills and swollen lymph nodes, the DHS said.

Most people with monkeypox recover within four weeks without treatment, the DHS said. Still, vaccinations and antiviral meds can be used to prevent and treat it.

If you know you were exposed to monkeypox, the DHS recommended you speak with your doctor to see if you are eligible for a vaccine.

Monkeypox does not spread easily. It can be transmitted through respiratory droplets, skin-to-skin contact, and contact with items contaminated by fluids or sores of someone who has monkeypox.