Trending
The Maui News
One additional case of monkeypox has been identified in an adult Oahu resident, the state Department of Health announced Wednesday.
The person had close contact with the first probable case, also an Oahu resident, and presented with symptoms consistent with monkeypox.
Testing completed by the State Laboratories Division detected orthopoxvirus -- monkeypox is a type of orthopoxvirus. Confirmatory testing for both cases is pending with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
"While the risk for most Hawaii residents remains low, we urge individuals with symptoms consistent with monkeypox to contact their health care provider," Deputy State Epidemiologist Dr. Nathan Tan said in a news release Wednesday. "We continue to work closely with providers, federal agencies and the community as we respond to these cases."
Monkeypox is a rare disease caused by the monkeypox virus. Infection begins with flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle aches, chills, exhaustion and swollen lymph nodes, according to the Health Department. Infection progresses to a rash or sores, often on the hands, feet, chest, face or genitals. Individuals generally become ill within 21 days of exposure.
Monkeypox can spread through close, prolonged contact with an infected person or animal. This includes direct contact with body fluids, lesion material, or items used by someone with monkeypox. Monkeypox can be spread through large respiratory droplets. These droplets generally cannot travel more than a few feet, so prolonged face-to-face contact is required.
Nationally, the CDC has reported that many cases have been among gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men or those who recently traveled abroad or to the continental U.S. However, anyone who has been in close contact with someone with monkeypox is at higher risk of infection, regardless of a person's gender, sexual orientation or travel history.
Individuals with symptoms consistent with monkeypox infection should immediately contact their health care provider, the DOH said.
Health care providers should immediately report suspected cases to DOH. Providers should be alert for patients who have rash illnesses consistent with monkeypox, especially in those with a recent travel history to areas reporting monkeypox cases and regardless of gender or sexual orientation.
To view the DOH's full medical advisory released Friday with detailed guidance on monkeypox, visit health.hawaii.gov/docd/for-healthcare-providers/medical-advisories/.