(KMJ) – The Fresno County Department of Public Health confirms its first case of Monkeypox.
“Although the risk of monkeypox is low based on the information available, the FCDPH encourages everyone to assess their own risk for Monkeypox by considering the ways in which it can be spread and modifying activities that may put them at risk,” says Dr. Rais Vohra, Fresno County Interim Health Officer.
Monkeypox is a rare disease that is caused by infection with a virus related to the variola (smallpox) virus and vaccinia virus. All of these are characterized by rash, flu-like systemic illness and enlargement of lymph nodes. Mortality from monkeypox is low, although severe illnesses and deaths have been reported.
The Fresno County Health Department is working with state and national agencies to ensure that testing, treatment, and vaccination efforts are aligned with current best practices. In addition, available supplies, including vaccines are being monitored.
The Monkeypox infection might start with symptoms similar to the flu, with fever, low energy, swollen lymph nodes, and general body aches, but the most prominent symptom in this wave of Monkeypox is rash or sores which may be the first or only sign of monkeypox, and may begin within 1 to 3 days of other symptoms.
Most of the recent cases of Monkeypox have been related to sexual activities, with rash and/or sores on the genitals, anus, or face. The rash can resemble pimples or blisters and may be painful and itchy.
Tulare and Kern Counties have also reported individual cases of Monkeypox since the beginning of the month.
