DOH reports another probable monkeypox case
The state Department of Health today said it has identified one additional probable case of monkeypox in an Oahu resident.
This brings the total number of cases in Hawaii to five confirmed and one probable. DOH has also identified connections between all six people.
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“Vaccination and treatments are available, and we encourage anyone with monkeypox symptoms to contact their healthcare provider,” Health Director Elizabeth Char said in a statement.
The risk to most Hawaii residents remains low. The DOH continues to conduct contact tracing and coordinate vaccination and treatment, which can be effective in controlling monkeypox infection.
Monkeypox is a rare disease caused by the monkeypox virus. Infection begins with flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle aches, chills, exhaustion, and swollen lymph nodes. Infection progresses to a rash or sores, often on the hands, feet, chest, face, or genitals.
Individuals generally become ill within 21 days of exposure.
Monkeypox can spread through direct contact with body fluids, lesion material, or items used by someone with monkeypox as well as close, prolonged contact with an infected person or animal. Monkeypox can be spread through large respiratory droplets. These droplets generally cannot travel more than a few feet, so prolonged face-to-face contact is required.
Individuals with monkeypox symptoms, including flu-like symptoms, swollen lymph nodes, or new or unexplained rash or sores, should immediately contact their health care provider, according to the DOH.
Nationwide, monkeypox cases have been disproportionately reported among gay or bisexual men. In Hawaii, at least some of the cases have been reported among gay or bisexual men. However, anyone who has close contact with someone with monkeypox is at risk of infection, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.
