First North Carolina Monkeypox Case Reported
It was bound to happen sooner or later and now it has. The first North Carolina case of Monkeypox has been identified. According to the North Carolina Department of Health & Human Services (NCDHHS), the virus was identified in an NC resident by the State Laboratory of Public Health. That individual is currently isolated at home.
While rare, Monkeypox can be a serious infection. Symptoms include flu-like symptoms, lymph node swelling, and fluid-filled lesions that scab over. Infections usually persist for 2-4 weeks. Monkey Pox is spread by skin to skin contact.
The NCDHHS said in a press release that since May 2022, 3,308 monkeypox cases have been identified. This is outside of areas where the virus is considered endemic. Despite the number of cases there have been no deaths.
“The number of monkeypox cases has been growing in the U.S. and globally,” said Dr. Zack Moore, State Epidemiologist and Epidemiology Section Chief. “Though this is the first confirmed case in North Carolina, we know there are likely other cases in the state. We are encouraging doctors to consider this in people who have a rash or skin lesion that looks like monkeypox.”
How North Carolina Can Protect Against Monkeypox
Seek care from a healthcare provider if you develop an unexplained rash, sores or other symptoms. Keep that rash covered and avoid sex or being intimate with anyone until you have been seen by a doctor. You can use standard household cleaners and detergents to sanitize surfaces.
More information can be found on the CDC website:
Signs and Symptoms
How it Spreads
Monkeypox Facts for People Who are Sexually Active
