A possible case of monkeypox has been found in Williamson County, but the local health district stresses that there is little danger to the community.
On July 14, the Williamson County and Cities Health District (WCCHD) announced that it was awaiting results from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to confirm a presumptive case of monkeypox in Williamson County. WCCHD is coordinating with the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) and CDC as part of the ongoing investigation.
“The threat of monkeypox to the general Williamson County population remains low,” said WCCHD staff in a press release. “Monkeypox is rare and does not spread easily between people without close contact.”
According to the health district, the resident acquired the infection while traveling outside of the county. They did not have any close contact while infectious, did not require hospitalization and are isolating at home.
The virus can spread from person-to-person through:
• direct contact with the infectious rash, scabs or body fluids;
• respiratory secretions during prolonged, face-to-face contact or during intimate physical contact such as kissing, cuddling or sexual activity;
• touching items, such as clothing or linens, that previously touched the infectious rash or body fluids;
• pregnant people to their fetus through the placenta.
Persons with monkeypox may develop symptoms such as a fever, swollen lymph nodes and general body aches before developing a rash. People should seek medical attention if they develop symptoms consistent with monkeypox.
Providers can order testing with a consultation with their local health department through DSHS Lab or through several commercial laboratories. Vaccines are limited at this time and are only offered to those who need them.
For more information and prevention tips, visit https:// www.cdc.gov/poxvirus/monkeypox/index.html.
