CHAMBERS COUNTY, Texas — Health officials in Chambers County have confirmed the first case of Monkeypox within the county.
The age, gender and identity of the person who was infected has not been released. The Epidemiology Division is investigating the case and is working with area, regional, state, and federal partners in monitoring the situation.
Officials said the risk of disease to the general public is low at this time; however, Monkeypox cases are on the rise throughout the state of Texas.
Monkeypox is spread through skin to skin contact, through contact with bodily fluids or lesions, or through items shared by a contaminated person. A person can also catch the disease if they are in close proximity with an infected individual for a long period of time, three hours.
Symptoms include a rash, fevers, body aches and swollen lymph nodes.
The mortality rate for Monkeypox is low and as of now, no deaths in connection with the disease have been reported in the US. However, it can lead to severe symptoms including disfigurement and other complications.
Monkeypox is an immediately reportable condition. Anyone who thinks they may have it is encouraged to contact the Chambers County Public Health Epidemiology Division at (409) 267-2731.
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From a Chambers County release:
Chambers County Public Health has confirmed the first case of Monkeypox within Chambers County. The Epidemiology Division continues to investigate this case, and is working with local, regional, state, and federal partners in monitoring the situation.
Currently, the risk of disease to the general public remains very low. Monkeypox spread through skin to skin contact, contact with body fluids or lesions, or shared items that are contaminated by an individual with Monkeypox such as bedding. Additionally, it can be spread through respiratory droplets to persons in close proximity and prolonged exposure (3 hours) to a positive case. Symptoms of monkeypox include rash, fever, body aches, and swollen lymph nodes.
The mortality rate for Monkeypox remains low, with no reported deaths in the United States to date, although it can cause severe disease including disfigurement and other complications in certain populations.
Monkeypox cases are on the rise throughout Texas and Nationwide. Those who are at a higher risk for exposure should be aware of their risk, and seek out medical guidance from their Primary Care Provider, including vaccinations, testing, or treatment.
Monkeypox is an immediately reportable condition upon suspicion, and should be reported to Chambers County Public Health Epidemiology Division (409) 267-2731.
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