BEAUMONT, Texas — The City of Beaumont Public Health Department has announced the first case of Monkeypox documented in the city.
The health department's epidemiology division is still investigating and getting more details on the case according to a news release from the Beaumont Public Health Department.
The general public is not currently considered to be at risk according to the health department.
MORE | Monkeypox info via the CDC
The health department is working with the state and federal health officials to monitor this first case the release said.
RELATED: What health officials want community to know after first case of monkeypox reported in Beaumont
Suspected monkeypox cases in Beaumont are reported health department's Epidemiology Division by phone at (409) 654-3603 or by fax at (409) 835-2545.
The virus can spread through contact with body fluids, lesions, or shared items that have been contaminated with fluids by a person with monkeypox such as bedding according to the heath department.
It can also spread through respiratory droplets to persons in close proximity after prolonged exposure of ore than three hours. Symptoms may include rash, fever, swollen lymph nodes, and body aches.
Cases have been reported nationwide within sexual networks. Persons who are at high risk for monkeypox exposure should be aware of their risk and seek medical attention through their primary care provider if they develop any symptoms the release said.
GET NEWS & WEATHER ALERTS | Download the 12News App to your mobile device
This is a developing story. We will update with more if and when we receive more confirmed information.
Read the full City of Beaumont news release below...
The Beaumont Public Health Department (BPHD) reports the first case of Monkeypox within the City. Our Epidemiology Division is investigating and still obtaining details on the case. Currently, the general public is not considered at risk. BPHD will work with local, federal, and state partners to continue to monitor the situation.
Monkeypox can spread through contact with body fluids, lesions, or shared items that have been contaminated with fluids by a person with monkeypox such as bedding. Monkeypox can also spread through respiratory droplets to persons in close proximity after prolonged exposure (over three hours). Symptoms of monkeypox may include rash, fever, swollen lymph nodes, and body aches.
Monkeypox cases are accruing nationwide within sexual networks. Persons who are at high risk for monkeypox exposure should be aware of their risk and seek medical attention through their primary care provider if they develop any symptoms of monkeypox.
In the City of Beaumont, suspected or confirmed monkeypox cases are reportable to the Beaumont Public Health Department, Epidemiology Division (409) 654-3603 or fax a report to (409) 835-2545.
For more information, go to Monkeypox | Poxvirus | CDC and The City of Beaumont Webpage at City of Beaumont, Texas – City of Beaumont, Texas Official Website (beaumonttexas.gov)