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CDC ups response to monkeypox outbreak

Several surrounding states have now joined the list of locations where the 2022 outbreak of monkeypox has been detected, including Nebraska, Colorado and Utah.

While Wyoming still remains free of the disease, the Centers for Disease Control wants to raise awareness of the situation as the outbreak continues to spread.

Multiple cases of monkeypox have now been reported globally in countries that don’t usually report the disease. Early data suggests that a high number of the known cases have occurred among gay and bisexual men; however, it is not clear how the known cases were exposed to monkeypox and anyone who has been in close contact with an infected person is at risk.

Last week, the CDC activated its emergency operations center to monitor and coordinate the response and mobilize additional personnel and resources.

The known cases since May, according to the CDC, have been identified in 18 states and territories among people returning from international travel and their close contacts. Globally, over 1600 cases have now been reported in more than 30 countries.

“In the United States, evidence of person-to-person disease transmission in multiple states and reports of clinical cases with some uncharacteristic features have raised concern that some cases are not being recognized and tested,” states the CDC in a June health alert.

Symptoms of monkeypox include fever, headache, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, chills, exhaustion and a rash that can look like pimples or blisters. The illness typically lasts between two and four weeks and is rarely fatal.

It is believed to spread through direct contact with the infectious rash or bodily fluids, intimate physical contact, touching items that have previously touched the infectious rash or in utero through the placenta.

If you believe you may have symptoms consistent with monkeypox, the CDC recommends speaking with your healthcare provider, even if you do not believe you have had contact with someone who has monkeypox.

 
 
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