The first probable case of monkeypox has been recognized in a Kern County resident, the Kern County Public Health Services Department introduced Saturday.
The division didn’t reveal particulars in regards to the individual, comparable to age, gender, or metropolis or city of residence.
“We encourage our community to stay alert about emerging public health threats like monkeypox; however, currently the risk to the general public is low,” Brynn Carrigan, director of public well being, mentioned in the information launch. “The case is in isolation recovering at home. We are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding this case, identifying close contacts and notifying them of their potential exposure.”
The California Department of Public Health reviews there are 141 circumstances in the state, whereas as of Friday, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported 791 circumstances recognized in 37 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rice.
Monkeypox might be extraordinarily painful, however no deaths have been reported in the United States, the county well being division famous in its Saturday information launch.
Kern Public Health mentioned monkeypox, which is uncommon, is attributable to an infection with the monkeypox virus. It might be unfold from contaminated people, animals and supplies contaminated with the virus, particularly by direct contact with infectious sores, scabs, or physique fluids and thru touching contaminated objects. It also can unfold by respiratory secretions throughout extended, shut, face-to-face or intimate contact.
Symptoms can embody: A rash which will appear to be pimples or blisters, fever, swollen lymph nodes, common physique aches, or fatigue. People might have some or all signs, however most individuals with the virus have the rash. It might be handed to others from the time signs begin till all sores have healed and a contemporary layer of pores and skin has fashioned, which may take a number of weeks.
Anyone who believes they have been uncovered ought to see a well being care supplier, Kern Public Health mentioned.
The county well being division listed these tricks to scale back the unfold of monkeypox:
- Avoid shut contact with individuals with signs like sores or rashes.
- Practice good hand hygiene.
- Use private protecting gear when caring for others with signs.
- Avoid contact with contaminated supplies contaminated with the virus.
- Avoid contact with contaminated animals.
- Stay dwelling in case you are sick or have signs.
