ASHEBORO, N.C. (ACME NEWS) — Randolph County Public Health has confirmed the first case of monkeypox in the county, according to an announcement this afternoon.
The infected individual, whose identity is being withheld for privacy reasons, is isolated at home, officials said.
“At this time, the risk of monkeypox transmission remains low,” said Tara Aker, Randolph County health director. “Our Health Department’s Communicable Disease team is monitoring the situation closely and is working with the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services to respond.”
As of Aug. 8, 2022, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported 7,510 confirmed cases in the United States, with 95 cases in North Carolina.
Monkeypox is a rare but potentially serious viral illness typically involving flu-like symptoms, swelling of lymph nodes and a rash that includes fluid-filled bumps that eventually scab over. The disease can resemble some sexually transmitted infections or chickenpox. Most infections last two to four weeks.
Testing is available and encouraged for anyone who has had close contact with a diagnosed monkeypox patient or has unexplained bumps, sores, blisters or pimples resembling monkeypox. Healthcare providers can arrange testing.
Vaccines are available to prevent monkeypox or reduce disease severity. Due to limited vaccine supply, eligibility prioritizes individuals with known or suspected exposure. The vaccine is available to anyone who had close contact in the past two weeks with a diagnosed monkeypox patient, and to gay and bisexual men and transgender individuals who in the last 90 days have had multiple sex partners, anonymous sex, been diagnosed with a sexually transmitted infection or received HIV prevention medications.
The CDC recommends avoiding close, skin-to-skin contact with infected individuals. Do not touch rashes or scabs, share eating utensils or cups, or handle bedding, towels or clothing of infected persons. Wash hands frequently with soap and water or use alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Anyone with an unexplained rash, sores or other symptoms should contact a healthcare provider. Keep rashes covered and avoid intimate contact until a medical provider has evaluated you.
To learn more about monkeypox, go to the CDC’s website or the North Carolina Department of Health and Human services website.
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